AFC/M23 Knock On Kisangani Door, Drone Strikes Airport

The AFC/M23 rebels have claimed that their drones successfully stuck Kisangani airport far away from the war frontline.

The controversial attack has drawn a strong reaction from the African Union.

The AU said such an act, which seriously endangers civilian populations, constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law, in particular the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution.

“The Commission Presidency warns against the extension of hostilities to cities far from the front lines, which constitutes a major factor of escalation and poses unacceptable risks to national and regional stability, as well as to the already critical humanitarian situation in eastern DRC,” the Chairperson of the African Union Commission said.

He called on the AFC/M23 to immediately cease all hostilities, renounce the use of indiscriminate means and methods of warfare, and scrupulously respect the commitments made within the framework of ongoing peace efforts.

“The Chairperson of the Commission reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the African Union to the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the DRC, and renews the commitment of the African Union to support, in close coordination with the relevant regional and international mechanisms, all credible initiatives aimed at restoring peace, security and stability in the east of the country,” he stressed in the same document.