The United Nations (UN) has authorized the evacuation of families of its international staff from Burundi following violence in Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The move comes as tensions between Rwanda and DR Congo escalate, with the Rwanda-backed M23 group seizing two major cities in eastern DR Congo.
The UN evacuated Bujumbura-based families of its staff last week, with several flights chartered since then to bring them to safety. The decision was made with “greatest discretion” to avoid upsetting the government. Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye has adopted a more conciliatory tone, saying he is committed to resolving differences between countries through peaceful means.
However, Burundi has placed troops on its border with DR Congo, just 10 km from Kamanyola town and the M23 advance. The country is also experiencing a significant influx of refugees, with over 43,000 people crossing the border in the last two weeks.
The violence in DR Congo has led to the deaths of 13 people and the wounding of many others at a rally in Bukavu. The finger-pointing between the government and rebels has further inflamed tensions in eastern Congo. Rwanda is accused by DR Congo’s army of supporting the rebels, who used rockets and grenades to attack civilians.
The conflict in DR Congo has deepened, with the M23 group advancing on Burundi. The UN evacuation is a response to the growing security risks, with Burundian President Ndayishimiye urging caution amidst the escalating tensions.
Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2592003/world