DR Congo President snubs EAC peace summit with Rwanda scheduled for Wednesday

In a significant development amidst escalating tensions, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi will not attend a virtual summit of the East African Community (EAC) leaders scheduled for Wednesday. This decision comes as Rwanda-backed fighters have reportedly entered the Congolese city of Goma, raising alarm over the ongoing conflict in the region.

The announcement was made by the official Congolese Press Agency (ACP), which stated that President Tshisekedi will not partake in the crucial meeting with his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame. This summit was intended to address the ongoing security challenges and foster dialogue among member states, but the recent incursions have complicated the situation further.

The conflict in eastern DRC has a long and complex history, rooted in ethnic tensions and the aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide in 1994, which led to millions of Rwandans seeking refuge in neighboring countries, including the DRC. Over the years, various armed groups, some of which are believed to have Rwandan support, have exploited the region’s instability, leading to a cycle of violence and humanitarian crises.

Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, has been a hotspot for clashes between government forces and rebel groups. The situation intensified in recent months, with reports of increased activity by the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda—a claim the Rwandan government denies.

The DRC government has expressed deep concerns over Rwanda’s alleged involvement in supporting these armed groups, calling for international intervention and accountability. President Tshisekedi’s decision to skip the summit underscores the gravity of the situation and reflects the fragile diplomatic relations between the two nations.

As tensions mount, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region, with calls for a peaceful resolution to avert further escalation. The EAC summit was seen as a potential platform for dialogue, but without the participation of President Tshisekedi, the prospects for addressing the crisis remain uncertain.

With the conflict in eastern DRC continuing to pose a significant challenge to regional stability, the situation in Goma serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance of peace and conflict in the Great Lakes region. The DRC government is likely to seek support from other member states and international partners to address the challenges posed by armed groups and ensure the safety of its citizens.