Renewed conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo involve Rwanda-backed M23 rebels battling pro-government forces despite ceasefire initiatives. Clashes have intensified, especially in North and South Kivu provinces, while efforts for mediation continue. Concerns are rising over regional stability as accusations surface between countries like Rwanda and Burundi.
Recent clashes between Rwanda-backed M23 rebels and pro-government forces have escalated in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This surge in fighting occurred in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, despite efforts from the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) to mediate a ceasefire. A virtual meeting held on Monday aimed to address the ongoing conflict but failed to halt the violence.
The M23 rebels gained territory since January, including the capture of major cities such as Goma and Bukavu, leading to widespread displacement and casualties. On Monday, tensions rose when M23 abandoned its promise to withdraw from Walikale, a strategic location in North Kivu. Local activists reported renewed skirmishes near Lake Edward and in towns north of Bukavu.
Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance of rebel groups including M23, criticized the peace negotiations, asserting that attempts to reach a settlement without his group’s participation are doomed to fail. “Anything regarding us which are done without us, it’s against us,” he stated.
In response to the conflict, regional leaders met on Monday to outline a ceasefire plan that acknowledges the historical backdrop of the violence and the competition for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s rich mineral resources, valued at $24 trillion. They proposed the establishment of a peace facilitation panel consisting of five former heads of state.
Amid the fighting, tensions have also arisen with Burundi, as President Evariste Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of instigating conflicts that could spill over into Burundi. He expressed that Burundians would not endure violence like that seen in Congo. Rwanda’s government responded, stating that it has cooperated with Burundian defense officials to secure borders.
The renewed fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights the complexity of regional conflicts influenced by historical grievances and competition for mineral wealth. Ceasefire efforts by EAC and SADC are ongoing, but the exclusion of significant groups like M23 risks the viability of peace negotiations. The situation remains precarious, with implications not just for Congo but also for neighboring countries like Burundi.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
