M23 rebels have ignored ceasefire requests from Congo and Rwanda, capturing Walikale, a strategic town rich in minerals. This conflict, intensified since January, has led to major territorial gains for M23. Despite international pressure, they demand direct talks with Kinshasa to address underlying issues in the region.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebel leader Corneille Nangaa has dismissed calls for an immediate ceasefire from both Kinshasa and Kigali, asserting that these appeals “do not concern us.” His forces have recently intensified their operations, successfully seizing the strategic town of Walikale, which holds significant mineral wealth. This capture places the rebels in control of key supply routes, elevating their influence in the region.
Walikale, home to approximately 15,000 residents, is vital for its mineral-rich resources, including tin. Reports from local residents indicate that M23 is fully controlling the town, with casualties reported. Civil society activist Fiston Misona highlighted, “The rebels are now visible in the center of the city,” alongside reports of wounded individuals receiving treatment at the hospital.
During a recent meeting in Doha, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame called for an immediate ceasefire following the escalation of the conflict since January. However, Nangaa maintains that the M23’s objectives stem from internal issues rather than external influence from Rwanda. He stated, “What happened in Doha … does not concern us” as it does not adequately address their concerns.
The conflict in eastern Congo has deep roots in regional historical tensions, notably tied to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and competition over mineral wealth. Since early this year, M23 has secured control over two major cities, Goma and Bukavu, defeating Congolese forces repeatedly in combat. International observers, including the United Nations, have alleged that Rwanda is supplying military support to the M23, a claim Kigali refutes, citing defensive actions against Congolese forces.
Planned direct talks between the Congolese government and M23 were anticipated recently in Angola, but the rebels withdrew, attributing their decision to sanctions imposed on some of their leaders and Rwandan officials by the European Union. Nangaa expressed the rebels’ desire for direct negotiations with Kinshasa, emphasizing, “We demand that if there is a dialogue, it be a direct dialogue,” highlighting their eagerness for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
The M23 rebels have actively rejected ceasefire calls while capturing the critical town of Walikale, asserting its importance in the context of ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite international appeals for dialogue, the situation remains tense, with significant implications for regional stability as the rebels persist in their military advancements. Continued dialogue remains essential for resolving the deeply rooted issues at play.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
