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US targets individuals contributing to conflict and instability in Eastern DRC

Storyline:World

GOOBJOOG NEWS | WASHINGTON: The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Forensic Assets Control (OFAC) has imposed sanctions on six individuals it says have contributed to the escalation of conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In a statement, the United States said the move reflects its commitment to advancing efforts toward resolution of the crisis, promoting accountability for human rights abuses including conflict-related sexual violence, and addressing the dire humanitarian situation.

“The United States is committed to promoting a peaceful resolution to the escalation of conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson.  “Treasury will not hesitate to hold accountable actors committing human rights abuses and exacerbating this already dire humanitarian situation.”

The current escalation of conflict began in November 2021, when the Rwanda-backed M23 (March 23 Movement) occupied portions of the North Kivu province of the DRC, prompting the Congolese military (FARDC) and several non-state armed groups, including the sanctioned Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), to respond.

Human Rights Abuse

Nelson further stated that the United States stands in solidarity with the people of DRC against those who commit human rights abuses and destabilize the region.

Those affected include Apollinaire Hakizimana, a Rwandan national playing his violence in the FDLR rebel group as a ‘defence commissioner’. He is sanctioned alongside Sebastian Uwimbabazi, also from Rwanda but now in charge of FDLR’s intelligence. Also sanctioned in the group is Ruvugayimikore Protogene, fighting for Maccabe group affiliated to FDLR. He is also from Rwanda.

The US State Department said the individuals had been involved in numerous cases, committing human rights violations including sexual violence and violence against children.

  • By Fauxile Kibet