M23 rebels have captured Walikale in eastern Congo amidst an ongoing conflict despite calls for a ceasefire. The rebel advance has serious implications for control of resources and civilian safety, with growing concerns over a humanitarian crisis affecting millions and international response measures being discussed.
The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have made significant advances in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, capturing the town of Walikale. This escalation occurred despite recent calls for a ceasefire from both Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The capture of Walikale follows the rebels’ prior seizure of key locations such as Goma and Bukavu earlier this year.
Following discussions in Qatar aimed at negotiating a ceasefire, which faltered due to tensions surrounding European Union sanctions on rebel leaders, the rebels claimed to have liberated Walikale late Wednesday. This strategic location now enables the rebels to control vital access routes connecting several provinces, effectively disrupting Congolese military operations in the region.
Residents and civil society leaders reported that heavy artillery fire was prevalent, yet diminished to sporadic gunfire by evening. A civil society activist revealed that confidence in the Congolese army’s capability to resist had dwindled, with claims that the local population feels abandoned.
The M23 rebels justified their actions in Walikale, asserting their intent to protect civilians against alleged assaults from Congolese forces. They reported that the Congolese army has been indiscriminately bombarding populated areas, further aggravating the situation and causing innocent casualties.
Walikale is significant for its tin and gold deposits, with the Bisie tin mine being a key contributor to the region’s economy. Recently, mining operations in the area were suspended due to hostilities. In a related statement, President Tshisekedi indicated potential collaboration with the United States regarding mineral resources in exchange for security assistance.
The humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo is exacerbated by the conflict, which has displaced over 7 million individuals. The M23 group is one of approximately 100 armed factions contending for control of economically beneficial land, supported by an estimated 4,000 Rwandan troops. The situation also warrants international scrutiny, as the U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an inquiry into human rights violations by both parties involved.
Despite the ongoing conflict, medical aid organizations like Doctors Without Borders reported their facilities coming under fire, complicating their ability to treat patients in Walikale. The escalating violence has led to severe population displacement in the area, fostering an atmosphere of fear and urgency within the local community.
The conflict in eastern Congo continues to escalate as M23 rebels capture Walikale, undermining recent calls for a ceasefire by Congolese and Rwandan leaders. With strategic control of important resources at stake, the situation poses severe humanitarian risks as conflict displaces millions. International scrutiny and potential interventions may be critical in addressing the escalating violence and its implications on civilian safety.
Original Source: www.thespec.com
