M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, defying a ceasefire call from both Congolese and Rwandan leadership. This strategic town controls key transport routes in the mineral-rich region. The ongoing conflict has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis, with U.N. investigations into reported atrocities underway.
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have entered the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, as reported by local residents and civil society leaders. This incursion occurred shortly after Congolese and Rwandan presidents called for an immediate ceasefire. Prince Kihangi, a former provincial deputy, confirmed the rebels’ presence in central Walikale, indicating a significant military advance.
The capture of Walikale grants M23 control over a vital road connecting four provinces: North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema, severely disrupting Congolese army operations in the region. Fiston Misona, a local civil society activist, noted the sound of heavy artillery in the area, indicating ongoing conflict. He expressed concern that the Congolese army has ceased to actively defend against the rebels, lamenting, “It’s as if we were being sacrificed.”
This escalation in fighting follows an unexpected summit between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda in Qatar, during which they urged an unconditional ceasefire. This meeting came after a previous unsuccessful attempt to negotiate peace, as the M23 withdrew from discussions owing to EU sanctions against its leaders. The M23 has previously expanded its control by seizing cities like Goma and Bukavu earlier in the year.
With a complex history of conflict, eastern Congo has become a battleground for numerous armed groups, including M23, which is believed to be supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. This ongoing turmoil has resulted in the displacement of more than 7 million individuals and has raised humanitarian concerns. Allegations of severe human rights violations prompted the U.N. Human Rights Council to initiate an investigation into these atrocities.
Notably, Walikale is rich in resources, including the largest tin deposits in the nation and key gold mines. The Bisie tin mine, a significant contributor to North Kivu’s tin exports, temporarily halted its operations due to the advancing rebel threat, highlighting the economic implications of continued conflict in the region.
The situation in eastern Congo continues to escalate with the recent entry of M23 rebels into Walikale, undermining efforts for a peaceful resolution. The region’s conflict is compounded by its mineral wealth, which remains a focal point for armed groups. The international community observes the grave humanitarian crisis, provoking calls for investigation into human rights abuses, as millions face displacement amid ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
