Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Walikale in eastern Congo despite calls for a ceasefire. This move disrupts critical access to several provinces and raises concerns over the Congolese military’s ability to respond. The region’s rich mineral resources are threatened, with significant humanitarian implications as violence escalates.
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have entered the strategically important town of Walikale in eastern Congo, defying recent appeals for a ceasefire by the presidents of Congo and Rwanda. Residents report the rebels’ presence in central Walikale, with former provincial deputy Prince Kihangi confirming their visibility at key locations within the town. This incursion interrupts access to critical roadways connecting North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema provinces, isolating Congolese military positions from essential support.
Throughout the day, heavy artillery was audible, though it eventually subdued to sporadic gunfire. Civil society activist Fiston Misona expressed concerns over the Congolese army’s apparent lack of resistance, stating, “It’s as if we were being sacrificed.” Although the situation is tense, there has yet to be a response from either the M23 or Congolese government.
This escalation follows joint talks between the Congolese and Rwandan leaders, who had gathered in Qatar to push for an unconditional ceasefire. These discussions were necessary after a previous attempt to negotiate a ceasefire ended in failure. The M23 rebels had withdrawn from talks after the European Union imposed sanctions on their leaders.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, which intensified this year with the M23’s advances, has reportedly displaced over 7 million individuals. The rebels, allegedly supported by 4,000 troops from Rwanda, have expressed ambitions to advance towards Kinshasa, the Congolese capital. Additionally, the United Nations Human Rights Council has initiated a commission to investigate severe human rights violations committed throughout the conflict, including numerous atrocities attributed to both sides.
The Walikale region is notable for its extensive mineral deposits, including significant tin and gold resources. Noteworthy is the Bisie tin mine, which generates a large portion of North Kivu’s tin exports. However, mining operations have been temporarily suspended due to the M23’s advance, as announced last week by Alphamin Resources.
The situation in Walikale underscores the complexities of the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, marked by the M23 rebels’ defiance of ceasefire appeals and their seizure of strategic territory. As heavy fighting disrupts local governance and humanitarian conditions worsen, it is evident that regional stability remains elusive. The interplay of international diplomacy and local resource dynamics will continue to shape the evolving crisis, raising the stakes for both civilians and regional powers.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
