M23 rebels captured Nyabibwe in eastern Congo despite a ceasefire. Malawi plans to withdraw its peacekeeping troops in response to the ceasefire and recent losses. The fighting has resulted in over 900 deaths and widespread displacement, complicating humanitarian efforts and peace negotiations.
On Wednesday, the M23 rebels captured Nyabibwe, a city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu, despite a recently declared unilateral ceasefire by the Alliance Fleuve Congo. This ceasefire was aimed at addressing humanitarian issues following the M23’s takeover of Goma, the capital of North Kivu. Reports indicate that clashes resumed between the rebels and Congolese forces early Wednesday, heightening tensions in the area.
Nyabibwe is strategically positioned between Goma and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu. An official from the Kalehe territory confirmed to Actualite.cd that the city had indeed been seized by the M23 rebels. Efforts to obtain a comment from the M23 spokesperson were unsuccessful, as he cited unavailability.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has instructed the commander of the Malawi Defense Forces to initiate plans for troop withdrawal from eastern Congo. This decision aligns with the ceasefire declaration and aims to facilitate upcoming negotiations to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region, following recent casualties among peacekeepers, including Malawian soldiers.
The humanitarian situation in the region is dire, with over 900 fatalities reported in Goma due to the fighting between the M23 and Congolese forces, alongside the deaths of 20 peacekeepers, primarily from South Africa. Thousands have been displaced, exacerbating an already challenging humanitarian crisis and prompting many to flee to neighboring Rwanda.
The M23 rebels have been involved in ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo, often leading to severe humanitarian impacts, including mass displacement and significant loss of life. The rebel group influenced a recent escalation of violence through strategic captures and military engagements. The political landscape in the region is complicated further by international peacekeeping efforts and the involvement of regional players like Malawi, which contributes forces to stabilize the area through peacekeeping missions under SADC auspices.
The situation in eastern Congo remains critical, marked by intensified conflict despite a declared ceasefire. The M23 rebels’ recent gains complicate the prospects for peace and security, prompting troop withdrawals from allied nations. The humanitarian impact of the violence cannot be overstated, with high casualty rates and massive displacements affecting thousands, highlighting the urgent need for effective conflict resolution strategies.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
