Malawi’s President ordered troops to withdraw from DRC, aiming for peace after a ceasefire declared by rebels. Despite this, M23 rebels captured Nyabibwe, violating ceasefire terms. The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23, further complicating regional tensions and humanitarian responses.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has ordered the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to start withdrawing troops from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision comes amidst the military’s involvement in combating armed insurgents as part of a Southern African regional mission. In a statement, Chakwera emphasized the importance of this withdrawal to adhere to a ceasefire agreement concluded by the involved parties and facilitate upcoming peace negotiations.
The M23 rebel coalition, involved in the ongoing conflict, declared a unilateral ceasefire beginning Tuesday for humanitarian purposes. However, reports indicate that the M23 has taken control of Nyabibwe, a strategic town in South Kivu province, raising concerns about peace efforts as this act appears to breach the ceasefire. Local and international sources confirmed the town’s fall to the rebels after intense early morning clashes.
Reports from DRC’s Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya highlighted the violation of the ceasefire and the ongoing resistance faced by M23 rebels from DRC’s armed forces near Nyabibwe. This move by the rebels may signify an intensified effort to advance towards Bukavu, following their recent capture of Goma, which has resulted in significant population displacement amid fears of escalating regional conflict.
The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 in exploiting the region’s mineral wealth, while Rwanda insists its actions are defensive to protect the Tutsi community. Additionally, humanitarian agencies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, reported looting of their supplies in Goma, affecting medical response efforts.
In the capital Kinshasa, lawmakers are exploring strategies to address the conflict ahead of an upcoming summit with eastern and southern African leaders. President Felix Tshisekedi is seeking input from the legislature to ensure legitimacy in tackling the crisis, while diplomatic tensions remain regarding the presence of Southern African Development Community (SADC) troops in the region, with differing views from DRC and Rwanda on military support.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict due to various armed groups, including the M23 rebel alliance, which has been accused of receiving support from neighboring Rwanda. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has deployed troops to assist the DRC government in fighting insurgents. Recent ceasefires declared by rebel groups have often been undermined by territorial advances, complicating peace talks and humanitarian efforts in the area.
Malawi’s decision to withdraw its troops marks a significant moment in the ongoing instability in the DRC, highlighting the fragility of ceasefire agreements amidst continued territorial disputes. As regional dynamics shift, the role of the SADC and the involvement of neighboring countries, particularly Rwanda, remain critical factors in the conflict’s resolution. Continued humanitarian needs arise as the situation evolves and the impact on local populations deepens.
Original Source: www.canberratimes.com.au
