The situation in the field of human rights in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) worsens against the backdrop of fierce clashes in the country. This was stated by the representative of the Supreme Commissioner of the UN Human Rights (UVKPH) Jeremy Lawrence.
Lawrence noted that the crisis in the field of human rights in the east of the DR Congo continues to aggravate after the capture of the “Movement of March 23” (M23) of the capital of the province of Northern Kiva – the city of Goma.
According to him, the clashes between the armed forces and M23 are extended to the southern kiva.
Lawrence emphasized that during the clashes, shells fell twice in areas where displaced civilians are located, which led to victims among the population.
“We documented at least 12 executions committed by M23 in the period from January 26 to 28,” said the UN representative.
According to Lawrence, in the districts of the province of South Kiva, such as Minov, the capture of schools and hospitals controlled by M23.
Laurence noted that the UN has made urgent requirements for the protection of civilians.
“We work with the UN staff and other partners to ensure the safety of civilians,” he said.
– clashes in DR Congo
Since the beginning of the year, due to the ongoing fierce clashes between the “M23” and the security forces in the east of the DR Congo, more than 400 thousand people have been moved.
The United Nations and the Democratic Republic of the Congo accuse Rwand of the support of M23, but Rwanda denies these accusations.
The group arose under the name “Movement of March 23” after the failure of a peace agreement signed by the countries of the region on March 23, 2009, in order to ensure security in the east of the Congo. Later it began to be called m23.
M23 represents the interests of the ethnic minority of Tutsi. This nation also includes the current president of Rwanda Paul Kagama.