M23 rebels capture Walikale, dismiss ceasefire calls from Congo and Rwanda. The conflict, rooted in historical tensions, threatens to escalate regionally. M23 demands direct talks to resolve issues related to governance and perceived ethnic persecution.
The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have dismissed calls from the Congolese and Rwandan governments for a ceasefire, stating it is “not a concern for us.” This comes alongside their recent capture of the strategic town of Walikale, marking a significant territorial advance in eastern Congo.
Walikale, a town of approximately 15,000 residents, is the westernmost point the rebels have reached and lies in a mineral-rich area. Its capture follows intense fighting with the Congolese army and allied militias. Experts suggest this conflict, rooted in the historical tensions stemming from Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, is escalating into a broader regional confrontation.
The conflict mirrors some of the worst violence in eastern Congo since the 1998-2003 war, which involved multiple neighboring nations and resulted in millions of fatalities. The M23’s advance brings them closer to Kisangani, a major city in the region, heightening concerns of further instability.
Following a meeting in Doha, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame initiated calls for an immediate ceasefire. However, M23 leader Corneille Nangaa expressed that unless the discussions address their grievances effectively, they are not interested in the proposals.
The backdrop to the conflict includes allegations by the United Nations and various governments that Rwanda is supplying the M23 with arms and troops. However, Rwanda denies these claims, asserting they are acting in self-defense against threats from the Congolese military and related militias.
Despite plans for direct talks between Kinshasa and the M23 in Angola, the rebel group withdrew, citing European Union sanctions affecting their leaders. Nangaa insists that direct communication is essential for resolving the conflict, highlighting their demands for improved governance and an end to perceived persecution of Tutsis in Congo. He emphasized, “We are keen on any peaceful solution,” indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue.
The M23 rebel group is firmly advancing in eastern Congo, capturing Walikale and rejecting ceasefire calls by regional leaders. The ongoing conflict, deeply rooted in historical tensions and resource competition, poses risks of escalating violence and regional involvement. M23 calls for direct negotiations with the Congolese government, highlighting the significance of dialogue in addressing their demands and seeking peace in the region.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
