M23 rebels captured Walikale, a key mining town in eastern DRC, with significant assistance from Rwandan forces. This advance emphasizes the worsening conflict that has seen thousands displaced and mining operations halted. Diplomatic efforts to broker peace are ongoing, but M23 remains uncooperative, insisting on their grievances being addressed.
The M23 rebels have captured Walikale, a strategic mining town in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking their furthest advance west. This seizure occurred despite calls for a ceasefire from both the DRC and Rwanda. According to reports, the takeover happened with minimal resistance, aided by the Rwandan army. Security sources confirmed the events to AFP, stating that DRC military forces retreated to avoid casualties and are now located approximately 30 kilometers away in Mubi.
Local activist Fiston Misona has reported that the rebels are visible in Walikale, with several wounded individuals receiving treatment at a local hospital. An M23 source claims the group has complete control of the town. The capture highlights the ongoing escalation of the conflict, as the M23 rebels have advanced significantly since their emergence in 2012.
The population of Walikale, estimated at around 15,000, is experiencing a mass exodus, with many fleeing towards Kisangani for safety. Previous M23 advancements include the capture of Nyabiondo earlier in the month after intense fighting and Bukavu in February, severely impacting the local mining industry as companies such as Alphamin have halted operations.
Diplomatic efforts from neighboring countries and global powers aim to address the ongoing crisis, which the UN identifies as the most severe conflict in eastern DRC since 1998-2003. Accusations persist that Rwanda has been supplying M23 with arms, which Kigali denies. Despite plans for direct talks between the DRC and M23, the latter withdrew, citing EU sanctions against its leaders.
The conflict continues to lead to significant displacement, with tens of thousands of people affected. M23 leader Corneille Nangaa expressed determination to fight until their grievances are acknowledged, indicating that current diplomatic discussions do not adequately address their issues.
The capture of Walikale by M23 rebels demonstrates the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, with significant repercussions for local populations and mining operations. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis, but tensions remain high. The situation continues to evolve as M23 rejects talks and reinforces its position, causing further displacements and regional instability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
