M23 Rebels Capture Walikale, Escalating Conflict in Eastern DR Congo
M23 rebels have captured Walikale, a key mining town in eastern DRC, with reported support from Rwandan forces, despite recent calls for a ceasefire. The situation has resulted in significant civilian displacement as thousands flee towards safer regions. The conflict is escalating, with implications for ongoing diplomatic efforts and humanitarian conditions.
The M23 rebel group has successfully captured the town of Walikale in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a significant mining hub in North Kivu province. Reports indicate that this takeover occurred on Wednesday with minimal resistance, largely due to support from the Rwandan army. Local sources and security agencies confirmed the takeover to international media outlets, highlighting the escalating situation in the region despite calls for ceasefire from regional leaders.
According to a military officer from the DRC, the armed forces retreated strategically to prevent casualties, now situated approximately 30 kilometers away from Walikale. Civil society voices within the town reported visible rebel presence and injuries among civilians, signifying a concerning humanitarian situation. The recent seizure of Walikale represents the M23’s most significant advancement to the west since its inception in 2012, placing it closer to major urban centers.
The escalation follows diplomatic discussions between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha, where they urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities. The town, home to about 15,000 residents, lies within a critical distance of significant cities like Goma and Kisangani. Reports indicate that thousands are fleeing towards Kisangani seeking safety amid the advancing conflict.
The M23 rebellion has recently intensified, having already captured other strategic locations earlier in the month, leading to severe economic impacts, including the evacuation of mining operations. Meanwhile, international observers have noted alleged armed support from Rwanda to M23, while the applicability of upcoming talks in Angola remains uncertain as M23 has withdrawn from them citing external sanctions.
Corneille Nangaa, of the Congo River Alliance, which encompasses M23, expressed that the group will continue fighting for their cause until their grievances are addressed, indicating a stalemate in peace negotiations. The conflict continues to displace vast numbers of civilians, marking one of the gravest humanitarian crises in the region since earlier conflicts in the late 1990s.
The capture of Walikale by M23 rebels marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. With minimal resistance and substantial support from Rwanda, the situation has prompted thousands to flee for safety. The international community and regional leaders are urged to address the rising humanitarian crisis, as continued fighting puts many lives at risk and complicates potential diplomatic resolutions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
