GOMA, DRC – In Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, thousands of people have fled General Laurent Nkunda’s rebel army. An estimated 400,000 people have been forced to move from their homes this year alone. 

The rebels have been able to advance on the town of Sake, which is located about 30km north-west of Goma. This in turn has pushed back government forces.

Since the army lost land to rebel forces last week, many innocent victims have been forced to flee from the conflict. Many victims have arrived to the regional capital of Goma, in an attempt to seek shelter. Presently, Goma is being defended by United Nation Troops.

In the surrounding hillside, UN troops have taken offensive precautionary measures. Major Prem Tiwari stated “We have reinforced our positions. We won’t let this town fall into the hands of Nkunda’s troops.”

Rebel spokesman, Rene Abandi stated “We are calling for a political solution – to end discrimination against some communities to solve the problem of the Interahamwe and to organise a modern army,” He believes that the solution to the conflict comes with political and not military action.

Anneke Van Woudenberg of Human Rights Watch was quoted as saying “The fundamental issues that led to the Congo war have never really been dealt with” and “we are seeing the results of that now.”

For more information, please see

BBC – Congolese flee as rebels advance – 13 December 2007

BBC- Congo Rebels Call For Peace Talks – 13 December 2007

The Sydney Morning Tribunal –  Fragile Democracy Faces Yet Another War  – 13 December 2007