In Uvira, a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), two mass graves have been uncovered, containing at least 172 bodies. This revelation comes after the departure of the AFC/M23 rebel group that had briefly seized control of the city in December. The withdrawal of the rebels occurred a week later under pressure from the United States, allowing the DRC army to re-enter the city last month. The existence of these graves highlights the ongoing violence and instability that has plagued the region, raising serious concerns about human rights and accountability.

Laurent Kaniuka, a spokesperson for the rebel group, claimed ignorance regarding the existence of mass graves during their control of Uvira and accused the government of spreading propaganda to tarnish the reputation of the AFC/M23. Following the retreat of the rebels, the governor appointed by Kinshasa for the South Kivu province, where Uvira is located, has voiced the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths and the potential links to the recent conflict.

The situation in Uvira clearly reflects the broader challenges facing the DRC, where armed conflict continues to result in significant loss of life. The international community, including the United States, has called for an urgent response to the human rights abuses occurring in the region, emphasizing the need for stability, peace, and the protection of civilians. This tragic incident underscores the necessity for greater oversight and intervention to mitigate the human cost of ongoing violence in Eastern Congo.