The African Union (AU) has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following a surge in violence between government forces and M23 rebels.
The appeal was made during an emergency ministerial meeting of the AU Peace and Security Council late Tuesday.
In a communiqué, the AU urged all armed groups to implement an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” and demanded the withdrawal of foreign forces from DRC territory. It also emphasized the need for adherence to peace agreements, dialogue, and the protection of civilians, warning that further violations could destabilize the region.
The escalation has triggered diplomatic tensions, with protesters in Kinshasa attacking the embassies of Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, accusing them of supporting M23 rebels.
The conflict has already claimed at least 25 lives in Goma and nine in Rwanda, with hundreds injured. Analysts suggest that M23 rebels are seeking control over key resources to strengthen their position.
