Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have captured Walikale in eastern Congo, despite ceasefire calls. The conflict has escalated since they took Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. The region is rich in minerals, raising further stakes as humanitarian crises deepen with over 7 million displaced. International efforts for peace are ongoing amid rising violence and accusations against the Congolese army.
M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized the strategic town of Walikale in eastern Congo, despite ceasefire appeals from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This escalation follows earlier captures of Goma and Bukavu, igniting growing tensions in the region. The rebels captured Walikale after talks between the two nations in Qatar failed to broker peace, with M23 withdrawing from ceasefire negotiations due to European Union sanctions on their leaders.
Control of Walikale enables the rebels to dominate key transportation routes linking the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema, effectively isolating Congolese army forces. Observations indicate rebel presence in central locations like the monument and the Bakusu group office amidst ongoing heavy artillery fire and sporadic gunfire, raising concerns among residents about the Congolese army’s effectiveness in defending the area.
The M23 rebels stated their incursion was to protect civilians from continued attacks by the Congolese military. Accusations were made against the army for bombarding populated areas indiscriminately, leading the insurgents to intervene under what they described as humanitarian grounds. They asserted their commitment to a ceasefire yet maintained a defensive posture against any provocation, highlighting their adherence to international law.
Walikale is critical due to its vast tin deposits and several gold mines, notably the nearby Bisie mine. This area significantly contributes to tin exports from North Kivu. The operator of Bisie mine recently halted operations due to the advancing rebel forces. President Felix Tshisekedi of Congo suggested a potential minerals deal with the U.S. in exchange for security assurances, indicating a strategy to stabilize the region through external support.
With M23 among approximately 100 armed factions competing for control in eastern Congo, the conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, displacing over 7 million people. Reports suggest the rebels have support from around 4,000 Rwandan troops and have ambitions to advance towards Kinshasa, the capital.
International bodies, including the U.N. Human Rights Council, have initiated investigations into the conflict’s human rights abuses, including sexual violence and extrajudicial killings. Medical organizations, such as Doctors Without Borders, have reported an increasing number of civilian casualties and a deteriorating security environment, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
The M23 rebels’ capture of Walikale underscores ongoing instability in eastern Congo, despite international calls for a ceasefire. With significant mineral resources at stake and rising civilian casualties, the conflict presents a complex humanitarian crisis involving multiple armed groups. Regional powers and international organizations continue seeking resolutions to alleviate the plight of millions displaced by the turmoil.
Original Source: www.thespec.com
