The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has refused opposition calls for a rerun of disputed elections this comes as the Congo's powerful Catholic church and its Protestant churches Observer Mission reported numerous irregularities that could undermine some results.

DRC: Election commission denies election fraud

In the democratic Republic of Congo, the recently-held presidential election continues to be mired in controversy. In the latest, an opposition leader has accused the congolese police of using live bullets to break up a protest in capital Kinshasa.

Dr Congo: Opposition supporters clash with police at banned protest

Different parts of the world are celebrating Christmas - people from around the globe flocked the St Peter Square for Pope Francis' Christmas eve mass and prayed for a peaceful world.

DRC: Archbishop addresses mass, commends courage amidst election unrest

The UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has suspended eight of its peacemakers following reports of serious misconduct.

UN peacekeepers suspended over serious misconduct charges

DR Congo's leader Felix Tshisekedi has submitted his candidacy for a second term in office, joining a crowded list of presidential hopefuls including opposition heavyweights and a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The turbulent central African nation, a vast and impoverished country of about 100 million people is due to hold parliamentary and presidential votes on December 20.

DRC's crowded field of presidential hopefuls

An attack on a convoy carrying gold claimed lives of two Chinese nationals and two others in the Democratic Republic of Congo's lawless east, the local authorities released a statement saying on Saturday (September 2).

The ambush, on Friday (September 1), targeted a four-vehicle convoy of TSM Mining which was carrying gold from a site near the Kimbi River in the Fizi region of South Kivu province.

The attackers "stole parcels of gold which they took away into the bush," said Sammy Badibanga Kalondji, the top local official in Fizi.

The other two who were killed in the attack were a Congolese soldier and a driver.

Kalondji said that the three others who were injured were a Chinese mine employee. two locals, a soldier and a mine worker.

He further said that the assailants were locals&nbsp;who belonged to the neighbouring Maniema region.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weakened-typhoon-saola-makes-its-way-along-southern-china-after-slamming-hong-kong-631706">Weakened Typhoon Saola makes its way along southern China after slamming Hong Kong</a>

China is a major investor in DRC, where the Asian power dominates the lucrative mineral mining industry.

South Kivu is the theatre of several attacks staged by armed groups and militias and there have been tensions and violence between locals and Chinese mining firms.

<h2>Militia attack on worshippers in Church in DR Congo kills 15</h2>

Earlier this week, at least 15 people died after militia attacked the worshippers praying in a Church in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Militiamen, who belonged to the Co-operative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO), which is a militia group involved in various brutal ethnic killings, on Sunday attacked a fishing camp in Gobu, stated Charite Banza, president of civil society in Ituri province.

The attack that took place on Sunday lasted for more than two hours, and ended with the killing of 15 people, said Banza while speaking to the AFP, further stating that seven other people died in the same area a week earlier.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

An attack on a convoy carrying gold claimed lives of two Chinese nationals and two others in the Democratic Republic of Congo's lawless east, the local authorities released a statement saying on Saturday (September 2).

An attack on a convoy carrying gold claimed lives of two Chinese nationals and two others in the Democratic Republic of Congo's lawless east, the local authorities released a statement saying on Saturday (September 2). The ambush, on Friday (September 1), targeted a four-vehicle convoy of TSM Mining which was carrying gold from a site near the Kimbi River in the Fizi region of South Kivu province. The attackers "stole parcels of gold which they took away into the bush," said Sammy Badibanga Kalondji, the top local official in Fizi. The other two who were killed in the attack were a Congolese soldier and a driver. Kalondji said that the three others who were injured were a Chinese mine employee. two locals, a soldier and a mine worker. He further said that the assailants were locals who belonged to the neighbouring Maniema region. Also read: Weakened Typhoon Saola makes its way along southern China after slamming Hong Kong China is a major investor in DRC, where the Asian power dominates the lucrative mineral mining industry. South Kivu is the theatre of several attacks staged by armed groups and militias and there have been tensions and violence between locals and Chinese mining firms. Militia attack on worshippers in Church in DR Congo kills 15 Earlier this week, at least 15 people died after militia attacked the worshippers praying in a Church in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Militiamen, who belonged to the Co-operative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO), which is a militia group involved in various brutal ethnic killings, on Sunday attacked a fishing camp in Gobu, stated Charite Banza, president of civil society in Ituri province. The attack that took place on Sunday lasted for more than two hours, and ended with the killing of 15 people, said Banza while speaking to the AFP, further stating that seven other people died in the same area a week earlier. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Two Chinese nationals, two others killed in attack on convoy carrying gold in Democratic Republic of Congo

According to a recently completed annual assessment by IMF staff, growth in the democratic republic of the Congo (DRC) sharply rebounded from 1.7 percent in 2020 to an estimated 6.2 percent in 2021, well above the 4.5 percent rate in sub-saharan Africa. The strong recovery was driven by the country’s mining and services sector performance. Even though the country is doing great on one end, that has not trickled down to the citizens who are outraged by the rate of insecurity, living conditions, and cases of sexual abuse in the east.

Outraged citizens protest

French president Emmanuel Macron had an argument with the Democratic Republic of Congo president while he was on a visit to the nation. The argument took place when Congo president reminded his French counterpart about his country's involvement in the 1994 genocide however macron bluntly rejected the blame attributed to France.

Macron to DRC Prez: You have not been able to restore sovereignty

The European Union (EU) said on Saturday (March 4) that it was setting up a "humanitarian bridge" in order to deliver aid to the conflict-hit eastern part of Democratic Republic of Congo. Fighting with the rebel group M23 in Goma, the capital of Norh Kivu province has displaced more than 600,000 people. A statement from the EU said that its mission will "deliver &nbsp;humanitarian support in the form of medical and nutritional supplies along with a range of other emergency items."

The bloc also said that it was releasing about 47 million euros which will be channelled through humanitarian partners for immediate need s such as nutrition, healthcare, shelter and water.

"The EU stands ready to mobilise all the necessary means to support humanitarian workers, including logistics and air, to meet the needs of the population in &nbsp;Democratic Republic of Congo," said the EU's commissioner for crisis management Janez &nbsp;Lenarcic.

"With this Humanitarian Air Bridge operation organised with the support of France and the new fund mobilisation, we reaffirm our support to the most vulnerable".

The DRC government has accused Rwanda of backing the militia group M23 -- claims denied by Kigali but supported by the US and several Western nations.

The militia re-emerged from dormancy in late 2021, subsequently occupying swathes of territory in North Kivu.

President Emmanuel Macron was in the capital of DR Congo on Saturday as part of his African tour aimed at renewing frayed ties.

He met on Friday with President Denis Sassou-Nguesso of the neighbouring Republic of Congo, after visiting Angola and Gabon.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The European Union (EU) said on Saturday (March 4) that it was setting up a "humanitarian bridge" in order to deliver aid to the conflict-hit eastern part of Democratic Republic of Congo.

The European Union (EU) said on Saturday (March 4) that it was setting up a "humanitarian bridge" in order to deliver aid to the conflict-hit eastern part of Democratic Republic of Congo. Fighting with the rebel group M23 in Goma, the capital of Norh Kivu province has displaced more than 600,000 people. A statement from the EU said that its mission will "deliver humanitarian support in the form of medical and nutritional supplies along with a range of other emergency items." The bloc also said that it was releasing about 47 million euros which will be channelled through humanitarian partners for immediate need s such as nutrition, healthcare, shelter and water. "The EU stands ready to mobilise all the necessary means to support humanitarian workers, including logistics and air, to meet the needs of the population in Democratic Republic of Congo," said the EU's commissioner for crisis management Janez Lenarcic. "With this Humanitarian Air Bridge operation organised with the support of France and the new fund mobilisation, we reaffirm our support to the most vulnerable". The DRC government has accused Rwanda of backing the militia group M23 -- claims denied by Kigali but supported by the US and several Western nations. The militia re-emerged from dormancy in late 2021, subsequently occupying swathes of territory in North Kivu. President Emmanuel Macron was in the capital of DR Congo on Saturday as part of his African tour aimed at renewing frayed ties. He met on Friday with President Denis Sassou-Nguesso of the neighbouring Republic of Congo, after visiting Angola and Gabon. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

European Union moves to set up 'humanitarian bridge' for aid to DRC

East African regional leaders have renewed their call for an immediate ceasefire by all sides in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, that pits the country’s military against a rebel group that the government has accused Rwanda of supporting. The leaders meeting in Burundi, was the latest diplomatic effort to try to end the conflict, which has displaced at least 520,000 people since march 2022 in north Kivu.

World of Africa: The unending DRC conflict

At least one United Nations peacekeeper from South Africa was killed, while another was injured after their helicopter in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo was attacked, on Sunday (February 5), said the agency spokesperson in the region. On the same day, Mali’s ruling junta announced that it was expelling the head of the human rights division of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).

A UN peacekeeper was killed in DRC after their helicopter was attacked

At least one UN peacekeeper was killed and another injured after their aircraft came under fire at around 3:00 pm (local time) during a flight to Goma, said Amadou Ba, a spokesman for the UN mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) to AFP. He added, the source of fire that struck the helicopter was not known and neither its precise location could be determined.&nbsp;

Subsequently, in a statement, the South African military also confirmed the incident which involved an Oryx helicopter. “A crew member was fatally shot, another suffered injuries but managed to continue flying the chopper and landed safely at Goma Airport,” said the South African National Defense Force (SANDF). Meanwhile, neither South Africa nor the UN mission has indicated who might be responsible for the attack, they also did not reveal which weapon was used to fire at the helicopter.&nbsp;

In a statement, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, asked the Congolese authorities to launch an investigation into the “heinous attack” and bring those responsible to justice. Similarly, MONUSCO chief Bintou Keita strongly condemned the incident and described it as a “cowardly attack” on an aircraft with the UN emblem and said that “attacks against peacekeepers can constitute a war crime”.

Mali’s junta expels UN mission’s human rights chief

In a statement, the Malian interim government, on Sunday (February 5), declared the head of the UN peacekeeping mission’s human rights division, Guillaume Ngefa-Atondoko Andali, as persona non grata and said he has 48 hours to leave the country. This comes after he was allegedly connected to the biased choice of civil society witnesses for UN Security Council briefings on Mali. The most recent briefing was held on January 27.&nbsp;

Notably, the officials in Mali have repeatedly come under fire for their alleged human rights violations perpetrated by Malian armed forces reportedly in partnership with the Russian private military contractor Wagner Group. This also comes days after the UN experts called for an investigation into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity by these forces in Mali in January. 
 
Notably, the current Malian government took power two years following a military coup and has since pushed back against some of the allegations by the UN, asserting their authorities are committed to respecting human rights in accordance with international and national law.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

At least one United Nations peacekeeper from South Africa was killed, while another was injured after their helicopter in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo was attacked, on Sunday (February 5), said the agency spokesperson in the region.

At least one United Nations peacekeeper from South Africa was killed, while another was injured after their helicopter in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo was attacked, on Sunday (February 5), said the agency spokesperson in the region. On the same day, Mali’s ruling junta announced that it was expelling the head of the human rights division of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). A UN peacekeeper was killed in DRC after their helicopter was attacked At least one UN peacekeeper was killed and another injured after their aircraft came under fire at around 3:00 pm (local time) during a flight to Goma, said Amadou Ba, a spokesman for the UN mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) to AFP. He added, the source of fire that struck the helicopter was not known and neither its precise location could be determined. Subsequently, in a statement, the South African military also confirmed the incident which involved an Oryx helicopter. “A crew member was fatally shot, another suffered injuries but managed to continue flying the chopper and landed safely at Goma Airport,” said the South African National Defense Force (SANDF). Meanwhile, neither South Africa nor the UN mission has indicated who might be responsible for the attack, they also did not reveal which weapon was used to fire at the helicopter. In a statement, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, asked the Congolese authorities to launch an investigation into the “heinous attack” and bring those responsible to justice. Similarly, MONUSCO chief Bintou Keita strongly condemned the incident and described it as a “cowardly attack” on an aircraft with the UN emblem and said that “attacks against peacekeepers can constitute a war crime”. Mali’s junta expels UN mission’s human rights chief In a statement, the Malian interim government, on Sunday (February 5), declared the head of the UN peacekeeping mission’s human rights division, Guillaume Ngefa-Atondoko Andali, as persona non grata and said he has 48 hours to leave the country. This comes after he was allegedly connected to the biased choice of civil society witnesses for UN Security Council briefings on Mali. The most recent briefing was held on January 27. Notably, the officials in Mali have repeatedly come under fire for their alleged human rights violations perpetrated by Malian armed forces reportedly in partnership with the Russian private military contractor Wagner Group. This also comes days after the UN experts called for an investigation into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity by these forces in Mali in January. Notably, the current Malian government took power two years following a military coup and has since pushed back against some of the allegations by the UN, asserting their authorities are committed to respecting human rights in accordance with international and national law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN peacekeeper killed after attack on helicopter in DRC; Mali expels UN mission's human rights chief

M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are reportedly holding civilians hostage for their alleged collaboration with opposing militias.

As per an AFP report citing local sources, the rebels initially detained around 50 people, 18 of which are still in their grasp. These people are suspected of collaborating with two anti-M23 militias: the Nyatura and the FDLR.

Watch |&nbsp;Congo: M23 retreats from occupied territory, says 'handing Kibumba to military a goodwill gesture

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/congo-m23-retreats-from-occupied-territory-says-handing-kibumba-to-military-a-goodwill-gesture-546230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the nephew of one of the hostages told AFP that they were "displaced people who were returning to look for food" and that they are urging the government gets involved so that their "brothers are released".

This comes just a few days after the militia group delivered the strategic town of Kibumba to a regional military force, in a move that was branded a "goodwill gesture done in the name of peace".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/m23-rebels-announce-withdrawal-from-prime-locations-in-eastern-drc-546303">M23 rebels announce withdrawal from strategic location in volatile eastern region of DRC</a>

However, on Sunday the fighting resumed in North Kivu as the Congolese army dismissed the withdrawal as a "sham".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-report-says-m23-executed-131-villagers-group-says-govt-pressuring-agency-to-publish-false-numbers-541248">UN: M23 executed 131 villagers last month, group says govt pressuring agency to publish false numbers</a>

Another local told the news agency that his 76-year-old father and others were arrested last week on suspicion of working with the Nyatura, and the FDLR. The people have reportedly been taken to the locality of Rutshuru-centre, which is seen as an M23 stronghold.

As per local residents fighting between M23, the army and the self-defence militias continued on Monday. Citing a military source the agency further reports that the army and local militia faced off with M23 in the Bishusha and Tongo settlements. the army is reportedly "holding its position".

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are reportedly holding civilians hostage for their alleged collaboration with opposing militias. As per an AFP report citing local sources, the rebels initially detained around 50 people, 18 of which are still in their grasp.

M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are reportedly holding civilians hostage for their alleged collaboration with opposing militias. As per an AFP report citing local sources, the rebels initially detained around 50 people, 18 of which are still in their grasp. These people are suspected of collaborating with two anti-M23 militias: the Nyatura and the FDLR. Watch | Congo: M23 retreats from occupied territory, says 'handing Kibumba to military a goodwill gesture However, the nephew of one of the hostages told AFP that they were "displaced people who were returning to look for food" and that they are urging the government gets involved so that their "brothers are released". This comes just a few days after the militia group delivered the strategic town of Kibumba to a regional military force, in a move that was branded a "goodwill gesture done in the name of peace". Also read | M23 rebels announce withdrawal from strategic location in volatile eastern region of DRC However, on Sunday the fighting resumed in North Kivu as the Congolese army dismissed the withdrawal as a "sham". Also read | UN: M23 executed 131 villagers last month, group says govt pressuring agency to publish false numbers Another local told the news agency that his 76-year-old father and others were arrested last week on suspicion of working with the Nyatura, and the FDLR. The people have reportedly been taken to the locality of Rutshuru-centre, which is seen as an M23 stronghold. As per local residents fighting between M23, the army and the self-defence militias continued on Monday. Citing a military source the agency further reports that the army and local militia faced off with M23 in the Bishusha and Tongo settlements. the army is reportedly "holding its position". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

M23 rebels in DR Congo hold civilians hostage on suspicion of collaboration with rival militias

The M23 rebels have announced their withdrawal from a strategic front-line position in Kibumba on Friday. The rebel group has&nbsp;vowed to exit from the territory they had seized in eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).&nbsp;The rebel group was about 20 kilometres from Goma, encompassing a commercial epicentre for over one million people.

Congolese troops and M23 were on opposite sides of Kibumba, where the front line lies on a prime highway leading to the city.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-expels-top-un-official-without-specifying-any-reason-546294">Burkina Faso expels top UN official without specifying any reason</a>

In a statement, the M23 mentioned that they handed over Kibumba to East African Community's armed troops as a 'goodwill gesture.' The recent peace talks in Luanda, Angola's capital, nudged the Kinshasan officials to take advantage of the prospect.&nbsp;

In the first insurrection in 2012, the M23 invaded the place for a short time.&nbsp;The Tutsi-led group emerged again from idleness in late 2021. Since then, they have expanded across North Kivu province, an unsettled part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Hundreds of thousands of people have fled to escape the violence and chaos in the region.

The Democratic Republic of Congo alleged that Rwanda, their central African neighbour, have backed up M23. But Kigali denies the accusations.

WATCH|&nbsp;Bethlehem hopes for cheerful Christmas; holy city marred by pandemic impact

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bethlehem-hopes-for-cheerful-christmas-holy-city-marred-by-pandemic-impact-546281/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

However, western countries, including France and United States, and the United Nations, agree with DRC's conclusion.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Rwanda is no longer a part of the regional peacekeeping deputation. Burundi and Kenya already have their military in the region. On November 23, discussions between Rwanda and DRC in Luanda unlocked a truce agreement.&nbsp;

The agreement provisions mention that rebel group M23 must lay down their arms and withdraw from occupied areas. But the M23 rebels might still be in a position having violated the conditions of the accord. Local sources also claim that the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) might have taken over Congo.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The M23 rebels have announced their withdrawal from a strategic front-line position in Kibumba on Friday. The rebel group has vowed to exit from the territory they had seized in eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The M23 rebels have announced their withdrawal from a strategic front-line position in Kibumba on Friday. The rebel group has vowed to exit from the territory they had seized in eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The rebel group was about 20 kilometres from Goma, encompassing a commercial epicentre for over one million people. Congolese troops and M23 were on opposite sides of Kibumba, where the front line lies on a prime highway leading to the city. ALSO READ| Burkina Faso expels top UN official without specifying any reason In a statement, the M23 mentioned that they handed over Kibumba to East African Community's armed troops as a 'goodwill gesture.' The recent peace talks in Luanda, Angola's capital, nudged the Kinshasan officials to take advantage of the prospect. In the first insurrection in 2012, the M23 invaded the place for a short time. The Tutsi-led group emerged again from idleness in late 2021. Since then, they have expanded across North Kivu province, an unsettled part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Hundreds of thousands of people have fled to escape the violence and chaos in the region. The Democratic Republic of Congo alleged that Rwanda, their central African neighbour, have backed up M23. But Kigali denies the accusations. WATCH| Bethlehem hopes for cheerful Christmas; holy city marred by pandemic impact However, western countries, including France and United States, and the United Nations, agree with DRC's conclusion. Furthermore, Rwanda is no longer a part of the regional peacekeeping deputation. Burundi and Kenya already have their military in the region. On November 23, discussions between Rwanda and DRC in Luanda unlocked a truce agreement. The agreement provisions mention that rebel group M23 must lay down their arms and withdraw from occupied areas. But the M23 rebels might still be in a position having violated the conditions of the accord. Local sources also claim that the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) might have taken over Congo. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

M23 rebels announce withdrawal from strategic location in volatile eastern region of DRC

United Nations on Thursday said that militant group M23 has executed 131 villagers in retaliatory killings in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo late last month as part of a campaign of murder, rape, kidnapping, and looting.

102 men, 17 women and 12 children "were arbitrarily executed with bullets or bladed weapons," said the UN in a statement, adding that "Eight people were wounded by bullets and 60 others kidnapped. At least 22 women and five girls were raped."

Watch |&nbsp;Congo: Fighter jets bomb north Kivu, DRC deploys two Sukhoi-25 jets against rebels

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/congo-fighter-jets-bomb-north-kivu-drc-deploys-two-sukhoi-25-jets-against-rebels-532783/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The atrocities in the villages of Kishishe and Bambo on November 29-30 were carried out in retaliation for fights between M23 and competing armed groups, according to a preliminary inquiry by the UN peacekeeping operation (MONUSCO) and the Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO).

Nearby communities of Kishishe and Bambo were at the centre of the investigation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/m23-rebel-group-responsible-for-massacre-of-300-civilians-in-dr-congo-says-govt-540545">M23 rebel group responsible for massacre of 300 civilians in DR Congo, says govt</a>

However, due to security concerns, investigators were unable to visit the villages, so they instead conducted 52 interviews with victims and witnesses in the nearby town of Rwindi, which is roughly 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Kishishe, where survivors and witnesses had sought safety.

"MONUSCO condemns in the strongest terms the unspeakable violence against civilians and calls for unrestricted access to the scene and the victims for emergency humanitarian assistance," said the UN in its statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dr-congo-accuses-m23-rebels-of-civilian-massacre-breaching-truce-539250">DR Congo accuses M23 rebels of civilian massacre, breaching truce</a>

M23 is allegedly responsible for as many as 272 deaths, according to the government. The militia, which this year has taken control of a number of towns close to the borders of Uganda and Rwanda, has denied responsibility and demanded a thorough inquiry.

"We gave our version of the facts. We asked that there be investigations together with us in Kishishe but the UN never came," Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesman for M23, told Reuters.&nbsp;He claimed that the government was pressuring the UN to present a number, "even if it is false".

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

United Nations on Thursday said that militant group M23 has executed 131 villagers in retaliatory killings in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo late last month as part of a campaign of murder, rape, kidnapping, and looting.

United Nations on Thursday said that militant group M23 has executed 131 villagers in retaliatory killings in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo late last month as part of a campaign of murder, rape, kidnapping, and looting. 102 men, 17 women and 12 children "were arbitrarily executed with bullets or bladed weapons," said the UN in a statement, adding that "Eight people were wounded by bullets and 60 others kidnapped. At least 22 women and five girls were raped." Watch | Congo: Fighter jets bomb north Kivu, DRC deploys two Sukhoi-25 jets against rebels The atrocities in the villages of Kishishe and Bambo on November 29-30 were carried out in retaliation for fights between M23 and competing armed groups, according to a preliminary inquiry by the UN peacekeeping operation (MONUSCO) and the Joint Human Rights Office (UNJHRO). Nearby communities of Kishishe and Bambo were at the centre of the investigation. Also read | M23 rebel group responsible for massacre of 300 civilians in DR Congo, says govt However, due to security concerns, investigators were unable to visit the villages, so they instead conducted 52 interviews with victims and witnesses in the nearby town of Rwindi, which is roughly 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Kishishe, where survivors and witnesses had sought safety. "MONUSCO condemns in the strongest terms the unspeakable violence against civilians and calls for unrestricted access to the scene and the victims for emergency humanitarian assistance," said the UN in its statement. Also read | DR Congo accuses M23 rebels of civilian massacre, breaching truce M23 is allegedly responsible for as many as 272 deaths, according to the government. The militia, which this year has taken control of a number of towns close to the borders of Uganda and Rwanda, has denied responsibility and demanded a thorough inquiry. "We gave our version of the facts. We asked that there be investigations together with us in Kishishe but the UN never came," Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesman for M23, told Reuters. He claimed that the government was pressuring the UN to present a number, "even if it is false". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN: M23 executed 131 villagers last month, group says govt pressuring agency to publish false numbers

M23 the rebel military group has announced that the recently declared ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which was aimed in particular at stopping their attacks, "doesn't really concern" them.

Calling for a direct dialogue with the DRC government the rebel group said "M23 has seen the document on social media... There was nobody in the summit (from M23) so it doesn't really concern us."

Watch |&nbsp;African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/african-leaders-agree-on-immediate-ceasefire-in-violence-torn-eastern-drc-537022/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Speaking to AFP, the group's political spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka added that "Normally when there is a ceasefire it is between the two warring sides."

He said that&nbsp;the rebels established a "unilateral ceasefire" in April and claimed that as per him it was still in effect.

In a declaration issued by the leaders of the African nations of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, and Angola, along with former Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta said that M23 has to comply with the ceasefire and also withdraw from its occupied territories. It warned that if the group fails to do this, it will face intervention by regional forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-leaders-agree-on-ceasefire-in-east-congo-from-friday-537065">African leaders agree on ceasefire in east Congo from Friday, aim to stop M23 rebel group attacks</a>

"If M23 does not withdraw the East African Community (EAC) heads of states shall authorise the use of force to compel the group to comply."&nbsp;

However, Kanyuka declared "we will still be there".&nbsp;

"If tomorrow at 6:00 pm (1600 GMT), or in the morning, the government doesn't attack us, we will still be there," he said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/as-threats-to-the-dr-congo-rainforest-grow-scientists-battle-to-conserve-it-515455">As threats to the DR Congo rainforest grow, scientists battle to conserve it</a>

Otherwise, "we are defending ourselves," he added.

To address the underlying issues that lead to conflicts, he claimed that the group was, "always ready for a direct dialogue with the Congolese government."

The ceasefire was reached at a mini-summit in the Angolan capital of Luanda on Wednesday.&nbsp;

It calls for the end of hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as of Friday night and the M23 rebels' "withdrawal to their initial positions" after evacuating "occupied zones."

Ruling out direct negotiations with the group Congo's foreign minister, Christophe Lutundula, said: "Tomorrow, 6:00 pm, the M23 must stop all its attacks" during a press conference on Thursday in Kinshasa.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

M23 the rebel military group has announced that the recently declared ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which was aimed in particular at stopping their attacks, "doesn't really concern" them.

M23 the rebel military group has announced that the recently declared ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which was aimed in particular at stopping their attacks, "doesn't really concern" them. Calling for a direct dialogue with the DRC government the rebel group said "M23 has seen the document on social media... There was nobody in the summit (from M23) so it doesn't really concern us." Watch | African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC Speaking to AFP, the group's political spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka added that "Normally when there is a ceasefire it is between the two warring sides." He said that the rebels established a "unilateral ceasefire" in April and claimed that as per him it was still in effect. In a declaration issued by the leaders of the African nations of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, and Angola, along with former Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta said that M23 has to comply with the ceasefire and also withdraw from its occupied territories. It warned that if the group fails to do this, it will face intervention by regional forces. Also read | African leaders agree on ceasefire in east Congo from Friday, aim to stop M23 rebel group attacks "If M23 does not withdraw the East African Community (EAC) heads of states shall authorise the use of force to compel the group to comply." However, Kanyuka declared "we will still be there". "If tomorrow at 6:00 pm (1600 GMT), or in the morning, the government doesn't attack us, we will still be there," he said. Also read | As threats to the DR Congo rainforest grow, scientists battle to conserve it Otherwise, "we are defending ourselves," he added. To address the underlying issues that lead to conflicts, he claimed that the group was, "always ready for a direct dialogue with the Congolese government." The ceasefire was reached at a mini-summit in the Angolan capital of Luanda on Wednesday. It calls for the end of hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as of Friday night and the M23 rebels' "withdrawal to their initial positions" after evacuating "occupied zones." Ruling out direct negotiations with the group Congo's foreign minister, Christophe Lutundula, said: "Tomorrow, 6:00 pm, the M23 must stop all its attacks" during a press conference on Thursday in Kinshasa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

African leaders' DRC ceasefire agreement 'doesn't really concern us', says rebel military group M23

Kenyan President William Ruto is currently on a DRC visit. Regional nations have joined forces to fight rebels. Watch this report for all the details.

Kenyan President William Ruto on DRC visit as regional nations join forces to fight rebels

On his first state visit to DRC the Kenyan president, William Ruto has conveyed Nairobi's willingness to fight the rebel groups operating in the east of the country. Watch this report to know more.

Kenyan President Ruto plans to be aggressive with rebel groups in DRC

Thousands have displaced in the volatile Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo as fighting between Army and M23 rebels moves close to the key city of Goma.

Fears of humanitarian crisis in DRC, thousands flee as fighting between Army, M23 rebels resumes

The Democratic Republic of Congo have bombed rebel targets in the East of the country, further escalating the country's fight against the M23 group. The DRC deployed two Sukhoi-25 jets after the M23 captured a series of settlements - a long highway leading to Goma, Congo.

Congo: Fighter jets bomb north Kivu, DRC deploys two Sukhoi-25 jets against rebels

As recent months witness a deterioration in regional relations in central Africa, DRC Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula met with his Rwandan counterpart Vincent Biruta met in Angola on Saturday in the latest attempt to defuse tensions between the neighbouring nations.

The meeting takes place in the midst of conflict in the eastern DRC between a rebel militia organisation called M23 and the Congolese army, with rebels recently taking large portions of fresh territory.

Watch |&nbsp;Fresh clashes erupt between army and M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fresh-clashes-erupt-between-army-and-m23-rebels-in-eastern-democratic-republic-of-congo-527929/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to an AFP report, Joao Lourenco, the president of Angola&nbsp;hosted the two ministers in Luanda.&nbsp;Before this too Angola had made attempts to normalise ties between its two neighbours, however to no avail.

In July, following a meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, the DRC declared that a "de-escalation process" had been agreed upon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-extremely-concerned-over-deteriorating-security-situation-in-dr-congo-529728">African Union 'extremely concerned' over deteriorating security situation in DR Congo</a>

Lourenco went one step further and declared a "ceasefire," but fighting persisted the following day on the ground.

Tens of thousands of civilians have been forced to flee their homes as a result of the fighting between the rebels and the Congolese army in North Kivu.

DRC recently accused its smaller neighbour Rwanda of supporting the M23 militia that has uprooted tens of thousands of people.&nbsp;

The accusations have been consistently refuted by Kigali, which has led to a deterioration in its relations with its neighbour Kinshasa.&nbsp;At the end of the previous month, the DRC had even dismissed the ambassador of Rwanda and called back its own representative from Kigali.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As recent months witness a deterioration in regional relations in central Africa, DRC Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula met with his Rwandan counterpart Vincent Biruta met in Angola on Saturday in the latest attempt to defuse tensions between the neighbouring nations.

As recent months witness a deterioration in regional relations in central Africa, DRC Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula met with his Rwandan counterpart Vincent Biruta met in Angola on Saturday in the latest attempt to defuse tensions between the neighbouring nations. The meeting takes place in the midst of conflict in the eastern DRC between a rebel militia organisation called M23 and the Congolese army, with rebels recently taking large portions of fresh territory. Watch | Fresh clashes erupt between army and M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo According to an AFP report, Joao Lourenco, the president of Angola hosted the two ministers in Luanda. Before this too Angola had made attempts to normalise ties between its two neighbours, however to no avail. In July, following a meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, the DRC declared that a "de-escalation process" had been agreed upon. Also read | African Union 'extremely concerned' over deteriorating security situation in DR Congo Lourenco went one step further and declared a "ceasefire," but fighting persisted the following day on the ground. Tens of thousands of civilians have been forced to flee their homes as a result of the fighting between the rebels and the Congolese army in North Kivu. DRC recently accused its smaller neighbour Rwanda of supporting the M23 militia that has uprooted tens of thousands of people. The accusations have been consistently refuted by Kigali, which has led to a deterioration in its relations with its neighbour Kinshasa. At the end of the previous month, the DRC had even dismissed the ambassador of Rwanda and called back its own representative from Kigali. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

As tensions escalate between neighbours, DRC and Rwandan foreign ministers meet in Angola

UN peacekeepers in DRC fathered & abandoned countless children. In testimonies given to investigators, Congolese women recalled being raped by UN troops & getting impregnated at a young age. UN soldiers also reportedly indulged in sex trafficking. Palki Sharma reports

Gravitas: UN peacekeepers fathered children in DRC

Experts from the United Nations said that they have concrete evidence that the Rwandan troops have been fighting alongside rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since May, fighters from the M23 group have been waging their most sustained offensive in years, killing dozens and displacing tens of thousands of people.

UN Experts: Rwanda helping DRC rebels

Three UN peacekeepers were killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this occurred as anti-UN Protesters tried to invade UN offices in the eastern region of the country.

Anti-UN protests in DRC: 3 UN peacekeepers killed; India calls for urgent UNSC meet

Africa, one of the most under-reported continents in the media sphere is now evolving fast. Catch all the latest vibrant, untold & intriguing stories on One Africa with Erik Njoka every Tuesday on WION.

One Africa: DRC-Rwanda faceoff over M23 rebels

Drc, News on Drc, stories on Drc, articles on Drc, Drc stories at Wion, Drc news, Drc latest news