By Ollus Ndomu
The escalating conflict between the Congolese army and the M23 Rebels has reverberated in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo, prompting high-level government officials to take urgent action.
Prime Minister of Defense Jean-Pierre Bemba and Congolese Army (FARDC) Chief of Staff Christian Tshiwewe visited Goma to assess the unfolding situation on the ground.
Arriving in the capital, Kinshasa on Friday evening, they immediately convened with representatives of the UN peace mission, MONUSCO, to discuss the escalating violence.
Their agenda also included meetings with delegates from civil society and representatives of families affected by recent explosions that claimed several lives in the village of Sake, located just 27 kilometers from Goma.
However, despite efforts to engage in dialogue and assessment, the fragile calm was shattered once again as violence erupted in the hills of Sake village in the Masisi territory.
Reports indicate that the Congolese army deployed warplanes to bombard rebel positions, with sources confirming that regular forces, supported by the young Wazalendo patriots, successfully regained control of the strategic Nenero hill.
Despite this apparent victory, concerns linger as intelligence suggests that the M23 Rebels are mobilizing reinforcements and military logistics, particularly in the Rutshuru and Nyiragongo territories. These preparations hint at the potential for further attacks in the Masisi region, adding to the already volatile situation.
Amidst these developments, the Congolese government has sought to reassure the population, pledging that Goma and Sake will not fall into the hands of the M23.
Authorities emphasize ongoing efforts to liberate occupied territories and restore stability to the region.
