Renewed fighting in eastern DRC has erupted between M23 rebels and pro-government fighters despite ceasefire discussions by regional mediators. The rebels continue to make territorial advancements, having captured key cities such as Goma and Bukavu. Leading officials from the EAC and SADC have initiated talks to secure peace, while tensions escalate with Burundi over potential cross-border conflicts involving Rwanda.
Recent clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have erupted between Rwanda-backed M23 rebels and pro-government fighters in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. This resurgence of violence follows virtual ceasefire discussions conducted by regional mediators from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Despite their efforts, fighting persisted, particularly as the rebels have made significant territorial gains since January, capturing key cities Goma and Bukavu.
The conflict escalated on Monday when M23 rebels failed to withdraw from the strategically important town of Walikale, contrary to prior commitments. Local civil society activist Muhindo Tafuteni reported ongoing clashes near Lake Edward, which borders Uganda, highlighting the intense nature of these confrontations. Notably, incursions also occurred in various towns north of Bukavu, which M23 has held since February.
Corneille Nangaa, leader of the M23 allied rebel groups, stated the intent to continue the fight vehemently, asserting, “like people who got nothing to lose in order to secure the future of our country.” He dismissed the outcomes of recent peace discussions involving Congolese and Rwandan leaders, insisting that any peace efforts excluding M23 would inevitably fail. “Anything regarding us which are done without us, it’s against us,” Nangaa emphasized.
In response to the ongoing conflict, EAC and SADC leaders convened to discuss a ceasefire initiative aimed at addressing the issues stemming from historical grievances, including the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and competition for DRC’s mineral wealth. The DRC is rich in mineral resources valued at an estimated $24 trillion, essential for global technology. Subsequently, they named five former heads of state to spearhead the peace process, with Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo and South Africa’s Kgalema Motlanthe included among them.
The Congolese presidency announced a review of mediators, as Angolan President João Lourenço stepped down from his role in the negotiations. This shift follows President Félix Tshisekedi’s breakthrough willingness to negotiate with M23 after earlier resistance, though the rebels had previously opted out of talks amidst new European Union sanctions. Meanwhile, tensions have escalated with Burundi, whose President Evariste Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of planning an attack against Burundi, claiming it supports internal rebel groups aiming to destabilize the region.
Reacting to these allegations, Rwanda’s government spokesperson expressed bewilderment at Ndayishimiye’s claims, indicating ongoing collaborations between Rwandan and Burundian security forces to ensure border security.
This precarious situation exemplifies the complex interplay of regional power dynamics, historical grievances, and the struggle for resources, necessitating sustained diplomatic efforts to forge a lasting peace in the DRC.
In summary, the renewed fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo underscores the challenges faced by regional mediators striving to implement a ceasefire amidst the backdrop of longstanding grievances and geopolitical tensions. The capture of major cities by M23 rebels emphasizes the critical nature of ongoing negotiations, highlighted by former leaders enlisted to facilitate peace. As allegations mount against Rwanda regarding instigating conflict in neighboring Burundi, the urgency for collaborative regional security efforts becomes increasingly clear.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
