The recent peace agreement between DR Congo and Rwanda is met with skepticism in Goma, with critics expressing doubts about its efficacy and the absence of all stakeholders.
**Skepticism Surrounds DR Congo-Rwanda Peace Agreement Amid Ongoing Conflict**
**Skepticism Surrounds DR Congo-Rwanda Peace Agreement Amid Ongoing Conflict**
Concerns arise as the newly signed deal fails to address key issues and exclude relevant parties.
The recent peace agreement signed between the governments of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda has sparked skepticism, particularly in the rebel-held city of Goma. Former Congolese president Joseph Kabila dismissed the accord as merely a "trade agreement," raising concerns about its true purpose. The deal, which was finalized in Washington, called for the disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of armed groups in eastern DRC but offered limited details on implementation.
Rwanda has denied accusations of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has gained significant territory in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu, leading to widespread violence and displacement of civilians. The recent offensive by M23 has resulted in thousands of deaths and impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of citizens.
Following the territorial losses, DRC's government sought assistance from the USA, reportedly proposing access to its rich mineral resources in exchange for security support. Critics, including Kabila himself, have highlighted the absence of M23 representatives at the signing event as a major flaw, questioning how peace can be established without the involvement of all parties.
Residents of Goma echoed Kabila's sentiments, expressing frustration over the perceived sidelining of M23 in peace discussions and lamenting the lack of real commitment to previous agreements. "People are tired... they just want peace," one local stated, conveying a strong desire for tangible improvements in their lives rather than political posturing.
Human rights advocates also criticized the agreement, including Sam Zarifi, executive director at Physicians for Human Rights, who pointed out that vital human rights issues were overlooked. Zarifi emphasized that true peace cannot exist without addressing justice for victims of the ongoing conflict.
In contrast, some humanitarian leaders like Stephanie Marungu expressed cautious optimism about the potential positive outcomes of the deal for aid delivery and regional stability. However, she acknowledged that significant challenges remain in the agreement's implementation.
As the situation evolves, there are fears that the new accord may primarily benefit a few as they exploit the country's rich mineral wealth, rather than bringing relief to the ordinary citizens struggling in the wake of conflict. With the signing of the deal, the future of peace in eastern DRC hangs in a precarious balance.
Rwanda has denied accusations of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has gained significant territory in eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu, leading to widespread violence and displacement of civilians. The recent offensive by M23 has resulted in thousands of deaths and impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of citizens.
Following the territorial losses, DRC's government sought assistance from the USA, reportedly proposing access to its rich mineral resources in exchange for security support. Critics, including Kabila himself, have highlighted the absence of M23 representatives at the signing event as a major flaw, questioning how peace can be established without the involvement of all parties.
Residents of Goma echoed Kabila's sentiments, expressing frustration over the perceived sidelining of M23 in peace discussions and lamenting the lack of real commitment to previous agreements. "People are tired... they just want peace," one local stated, conveying a strong desire for tangible improvements in their lives rather than political posturing.
Human rights advocates also criticized the agreement, including Sam Zarifi, executive director at Physicians for Human Rights, who pointed out that vital human rights issues were overlooked. Zarifi emphasized that true peace cannot exist without addressing justice for victims of the ongoing conflict.
In contrast, some humanitarian leaders like Stephanie Marungu expressed cautious optimism about the potential positive outcomes of the deal for aid delivery and regional stability. However, she acknowledged that significant challenges remain in the agreement's implementation.
As the situation evolves, there are fears that the new accord may primarily benefit a few as they exploit the country's rich mineral wealth, rather than bringing relief to the ordinary citizens struggling in the wake of conflict. With the signing of the deal, the future of peace in eastern DRC hangs in a precarious balance.
