The M23 rebels in DRC reject ceasefire calls while capturing Walikale, a strategic town. The conflict, rooted in historical tensions and resource competition, may escalate into a regional war. Leaders emphasize the need for direct negotiations to resolve the issues at hand.
The M23 rebel leader in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has stated that the recent call for a ceasefire from the government and Rwanda is irrelevant to them, as they continue to advance and have successfully captured the crucial town of Walikale. This town marks the westernmost position reached by the rebels, having already taken over the two largest cities in eastern DRC since January. The fall of Walikale followed intense battles between the rebels and DRC’s military along with allied militias, confirmed by military representatives and local citizens.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC has roots dating back to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and is driven by competition for mineral wealth, representing the most significant violence in eastern DRC since the devastating war from 1998 to 2003. Analysts indicate that the situation, involving troops from DRC, Rwanda, and Burundi, is evolving into a potential regional conflict. Walikale’s rich mineral resources, particularly tin, and its strategic position connecting various provinces make its capture critical, bringing the rebels closer to the major city of Kisangani.
In a discussion with local residents in Walikale, an M23 officer reiterated their commitment to advancing toward Kinshasa, promising to ensure local security while continuing their journey. This remark underscores the rebels’ intent to extend their reach significantly within DRC.
Following direct negotiations between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha, a call for a ceasefire was made. However, the M23 alliance leader, Corneille Nangaa, firmly rejected this appeal, emphasizing that their cause was distinctly Congolese and not orchestrated by Rwanda. The M23 has accused Kigali of backing their movement, a claim Rwanda vehemently denies, asserting that its military actions are defensive against threats from the DRC’s military and militia affiliates of the 1994 genocide.
Despite plans for a meeting between DRC and the M23 in Angola, the rebels chose to withdraw from these discussions, citing sanctions on their leaders and Rwandan officials from the European Union. This withdrawal reflects both their confidence and the existing tensions surrounding diverse international peace efforts. Angola’s foreign ministry has expressed surprise at the developments in Qatar, advocating that solutions to African conflicts should originate within the continent itself. Nangaa has stressed the necessity of direct negotiations to resolve the conflict and has called for the cessation of perceived anti-Tutsi persecution along with improvements in national governance, indicating a desire for a peaceful resolution.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to deteriorate as M23 rebels dismiss calls for a ceasefire, further complicating the conflict that has deep historical roots. Their recent capture of Walikale highlights both their strategic advances and the potential escalation of a broader regional war. The ongoing dynamics underscore the need for direct talks and an African-led resolution to the turmoil affecting the region.
Original Source: aapnews.aap.com.au
