Congo crisis: It’s time to end it – UN Chief appeals for mediation

United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres has appealed for meditation to end the crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC.

He made the appeal at a news conference in New York on Thursday, saying now is the time to end the crisis.

Guterres made the “special appeal for peace” ahead of two important meetings to address the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group’s brutal offensive across the region.

“We are at a pivotal moment and it’s time to rally together for peace,” Guterres said, speaking from the Security Council stakeout position.

“We need the active and constructive role of all players —namely neighbouring countries, subregional organisations, the African Union and the United Nations.”

DAILY POST reports that Eastern DRC is rich in minerals and other natural resources and has been plagued by conflict for decades.

Over 90 armed groups reportedly operate in the area as fighting between the Congolese government forces and M23 escalated last month, with the rebels capturing the regional capital, Goma.

The rebels are now heading south towards the key city of Bukavu, capital of South Kivu province.

Several people, including women and children have already been killed, while many others have been forced from their homes.

“We also see the continued threat by other armed groups, either Congolese or foreign,” Guterres said.

“All of this is having an enormous human toll.”

Guterres pinpointed the countless reports of human rights abuses, the disruption of lifesaving aid, forced recruitment, and including sexual and gender-based violence.

According to the UN Chief, humanitarian situation in and around Goma is perilous.

Guterres affirmed that there is no military solution to the crisis, adding that stakes are too high.

“It’s time for mediation. It’s time to end this crisis.

“It’s time for peace. The stakes are too high,” he said.

Congo crisis: It’s time to end it – UN Chief appeals for mediation