The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with what it describes as the “inaction” of the United Nations Security Council in light of recent developments concerning the M23 armed group. In a letter addressed to the Security Council, Congolese ambassador to the UN, Zenon Mukongo Ngay, criticized the international body’s lack of responsiveness after the M23 seized control of the city of Bukavu, situated in the eastern provinces of South Kivu.
Mukongo Ngay’s correspondence, which has been viewed by AFP, reflects a sense of urgency and frustration regarding the Security Council’s apparent paralysis. He stated, “My government is outraged to see that the Security Council, paralyzed by who knows what illness, has been unable to reach a decision, despite the gravity of the situation.” The ambassador attributed the ongoing violence and territorial violations in the DRC to this inaction, specifically highlighting the illegal occupation of Congolese land by Rwandan Defense Forces in collaboration with the M23 militant group.
The conflict escalated after M23 fighters and their Rwandan counterparts captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. They proceeded to advance toward South Kivu, with troops reportedly entering the outskirts of Bukavu before overrunning the city itself on Sunday. In the letter, Mukongo Ngay called for an emergency meeting of the Security Council to rally international support and take effective measures to counter this aggressive advance.
He emphasized that the inaction and “wait-and-see attitude” of the Security Council have exacerbated the situation, leading directly to the loss of yet another strategic location, Bukavu, to the hands of the M23 and its allies. Mukongo Ngay’s plea underscored the need for immediate and decisive action.
Additionally, a draft resolution coordinated by France is currently under consideration. This document, which has been in preparation since late January, calls for a halt to M23’s military actions and demands the unconditional withdrawal of Rwandan troops from the DRC. It also advocates for the resumption of diplomatic discussions between the DRC and Rwanda and proposes potential sanctions against M23 leaders and those providing external support to the group.
The DRC’s position signals a critical point in its ongoing struggle against armed groups, particularly as it navigates complex regional dynamics involving neighboring Rwanda. The situation remains tense, and the international community is watching closely as developments unfold.
