DRC: M23 seizes Goma, EAC calls for cessation of hostilities
Kenyan President William Ruto, the current chair of the East African Community (EAC), demanded on Monday, January 27, 2025, an “immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities” in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This statement comes as M23 rebels entered the city of Goma.
The situation in eastern DRC, which continues to worsen, remains a major concern for the people and governments of the EAC. The humanitarian crisis is deepening, exacerbated by the closure of the airspace over Goma. The M23 claimed responsibility for the “liberation of the city,” demanding that the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) lay down their arms in front of MONUSCO and regroup at the Unity Stadium. The rebel group also suspended all lake activities “until further notice”.
In response to this escalation, William Ruto announced that an extraordinary EAC summit would be held within 48 hours to discuss the situation and develop a strategy. He stated that he had consulted with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who confirmed their participation. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of aggression, pointing to the presence of M23 rebels at the gates of Goma.
The EAC president emphasized the importance of dialogue to achieve a lasting solution, calling for renewed commitment to peace and greater involvement of the African Union in resolving the crisis.
In response to the urgency, Félix Tshisekedi chaired an emergency meeting on Sunday to assess the situation in Goma, where displaced persons camps have been bombed. The Congolese government is working to strengthen the protection of civilians while mobilizing international support through diplomatic contacts and an intervention at the United Nations Security Council.
The Congolese president reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety of civilians and preserving human life as the crisis continues to escalate.
