DRC: Tshisekedi Rejects Summit Invitation Amid Escalating Violence in Goma

The ongoing violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has prompted President Félix Tshisekedi to abstain from participating in a virtual Summit called by Kenyan President William Ruto, aimed at addressing the escalating rebel assault on the city of Goma.
State media confirmed that Tshisekedi would not attend the talks, which were intended to include both him and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, as rebel group M23 seized control of significant parts of Goma, including its airport.
While the situation in the city remains dire, with heavy fighting and sporadic gunfire, the reasons behind Tshisekedi’s decision to stay away from the summit remain unclear. On Wednesday January 29 evening, in a State Address, President Félix Tshisekedi announced a “heavy response” to M23 attack.
Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebels has been a central point of contention in the conflict, with accusations of backing the group to gain control over the region’s rich mineral resources.
Despite repeated denials from Rwanda, the UN has pointed to substantial evidence of its involvement. The conflict has further deepened ethnic tensions, as the M23 is led by ethnic Tutsis, a group historically linked to Rwanda.
Amid the chaos, civilian suffering is rising, with hospitals overwhelmed, essential services disrupted, and food and medical supplies looted. As tensions between the governments of DR Congo and Rwanda continue to escalate, the international community faces increasing pressure to intervene.

About Geraldine Boechat 3004 Articles
Senior Editor for Medafrica Times and former journalist for Swiss National Television. former NGO team leader in Burundi and Somalia