CISA NEWS REPORT
KINSHASA, March 6, 2013 (CISA) -Violent clashes between rival factions of the M23 are underway in the region of Rutshuru, 30 km from Goma, capital of North Kivu (eastern Democratic Republic of Congo).
In the aftermath of the framework agreement for the Congo signed in Addis Ababa on 24 February, the M23, the main armed movement that operates in North Kivu, has been split into at least two parts. The first refers to Jean-Marie Runiga, the former political leader of the movement, recently removed from office, and the other to Sultani Makenga, military commander of the rebel group.
Tension between the two factions, reports Fides, exploded after the signing of the Framework Agreement, which aims to stabilize the Great Lakes Region, putting under control the so-called “negative forces” (the various armed groups that have been in the area for a long time).
Faced with the prospect of a new international intervention in North Kivu, Runiga wanted to go on the attack, whereas Makenga seems willing to dialogue with national authorities and international bodies to stabilize the region.
In other news, Congolese Bishops opposed the revision of Article 220 of the Constitution which prohibits changes in the shape of the State. In a Memorandum to the President of the Republic, the Standing Committee of the Episcopal Conference of the Democratic Republic of Congo (CENCO) states that, “respect for the constitutional order must be observed by all. This is the premise of national cohesion and unity.” The Bishops pledge to “sensitize the population to understand the importance of this article for the stability of the Country.”
The Bishops also call for serious reforms of the judiciary system, armed forces and police, and an effective fight against corruption, also to ensure the safety in the east of the Country, threatened by the presence of various armed groups.
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