In brief
Goma, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, is now under the control of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, leaving its population grappling with shortages of water and food. The local military has retreated, while soldiers express anger towards the Congolese leadership for their abandonment.
In the aftermath of a fierce week-long conflict in Goma, the city has largely fallen to a faction of Rwanda-backed rebels known as the M23. The humanitarian implications for the city's two million residents are dire, with reports of empty grocery shelves, a lack of clean water, and medical facilities overwhelmed by casualties.As the rebels secured their position in Goma, angers flared among the Congolese military personnel who felt betrayed by their leaders. Numerous soldiers who had fought bravely now found themselves captured and crammed into the back of trucks, still donned in their uniforms. Instead of directing their fury towards the rebels, many expressed outrage towards President Felix Tshisekedi and military commanders who fled the city, leaving their troops to fend for themselves.Videos emerging from the scene depicted the chaotic retreat of commanders who abandoned their posts under the cover of night, escaping by boat across Lake Kivu as M23 forces advanced. The local population, on edge and fearful, has begun to emerge from hiding, facing the grim task of scavenging for survival amid the chaos created by the takeover.One soldier's voice echoed the prevailing sentiment: “Tshisekedi will pay for this.” Such animosity could further destabilize an already volatile region and complicate the humanitarian crisis that is unfolding. As food and water resources dwindle, the future for Goma’s residents remains uncertain amid the violence and political disarray.
