Title: Violence in the province of North Kivu: President Tshisekedi strongly condemns and calls for the protection of territorial integrity
Introduction:
In an unexpected statement, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, strongly condemned the violence plaguing the province of North Kivu. Ahead of his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Tshisekedi singled out Rwanda and its President Paul Kagame for their alleged support for the M23 armed group. This resolute position aims to protect the territorial integrity of the DRC and put an end to the atrocities perpetrated in the region.
Denunciation of the violence and designation of Rwanda as support for the M23:
During a press conference in New York, Félix Tshisekedi declared unequivocally that the M23 was a “group of criminals embarked on a criminal adventure led by Mr. Paul Kagame”. He accused Rwanda of exploiting the genocide it experienced to try to conquer the region, thus endangering the DRC.
Collaboration with the ICC to investigate crimes committed in North Kivu:
The Congolese government has officially requested the intervention of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the crimes committed in North Kivu since January 2022. This approach aims to bring to justice those responsible for the abuses and the plunder of natural resources in the region. A memorandum of understanding was signed between the DRC and the ICC to strengthen this collaboration.
Position of the United States and determination of Tshisekedi:
Félix Tshisekedi welcomed the position of the United States in this conflict, emphasizing their support for the protection of territorial integrity and the fight against armed groups in the DRC. He firmly affirmed that the DRC would not engage in any dialogue with the M23, thus reaffirming its determination not to let violence and instability reign in the province of North Kivu.
Conclusion:
President Félix Tshisekedi took a resolute stance against the violence in the province of North Kivu, denouncing Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 armed group. He called for the collaboration of the ICC to investigate the crimes committed and bring those responsible to justice. This position marks its unwavering commitment to protect the territorial integrity of the DRC and put an end to atrocities in the region.