M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have captured Walikale in eastern Congo despite calls for a ceasefire by Congolese and Rwandan leaders. This move isolates Congolese army positions and highlights a deteriorating security situation. The conflict has displaced millions and amplified a humanitarian crisis, prompting investigations into human rights abuses amid significant mineral resources in the region.
Reports indicate that M23 rebels, purportedly supported by Rwanda, entered the strategic town of Walikale in eastern Congo on Wednesday evening, just a day after a ceasefire proposal from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. According to Prince Kihangi, a local political figure, the presence of the rebels is confirmed in key locations of the town, notably near the monument and the Bakusu group office.
The capture of Walikale grants the M23 rebels control over a critical road connecting North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema provinces, thereby isolating the positions of the Congolese army. Civil society activists, like Fiston Misona, reported heavy artillery fire in the area, which subsided into sporadic gunfire by evening, noting a lack of military response from the Congolese forces, leading to feelings of abandonment among the local population.
This clash follows high-level discussions in Qatar between the leaders of Congo and Rwanda, who recently called for an urgent ceasefire. These conversations were preceded by a failed ceasefire negotiation on Tuesday, where the M23 rebels retreated after the European Union imposed sanctions on their leaders. The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has escalated significantly over the past year and has been exacerbated by the presence of M23, which is one of over 100 armed factions in the region.
More than seven million individuals have been displaced as a result of the conflict, which is worsened by an alliance of M23 with approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, as per United Nations assessments. The situation has prompted the U.N. Human Rights Council to initiate an inquiry into alleged human rights violations committed by both combatants.
Walikale is noted for its substantial mineral resources, including abundant tin deposits and gold mines. The Bisie tin mine, which is vital to the region’s economy, has temporarily ceased operations in light of the worsening security situation.
In conclusion, the recent takeover of Walikale by M23 rebels highlights the ongoing volatility in eastern Congo, exacerbated by external influence and internal conflicts. The urgent ceasefire advocated by regional leaders underscores the need for immediate conflict resolution. Furthermore, the humanitarian crisis and economic implications of continued violence in this mineral-rich area necessitate sustained international attention and intervention.
Original Source: apnews.com
