Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have taken control of the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, ignoring ceasefire calls. This escalation follows previous territorial gains in Goma and Bukavu, crucial for mineral resources. The situation is critical, with heavy humanitarian costs and concerns over civilian safety amidst ongoing violence.
The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has advanced into the mineral-rich town of Walikale in eastern Congo, disregarding calls for a ceasefire from both the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. The escalation follows earlier talks held in Qatar, aimed at establishing a ceasefire, which previously failed. The situation worsened as rebels seized control of Goma and Bukavu earlier this year, further intensifying the ongoing conflict in the region.
Residents and civil society leaders confirmed that M23 entered Walikale late on Wednesday, a strategic move that allows them to control key roadways connecting four provinces. This action effectively isolates Congolese army positions, heightening tension in an already unstable environment. Reports indicated heavy artillery fire throughout the day, with a civil society activist expressing concerns over the lack of resistance from the Congolese army.
Walikale is significant for its rich mineral deposits, including the major Bisie tin mine, which has halted operations due to the advancing rebels. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has expressed a willingness to negotiate with the United States concerning critical mineral extraction, seeking their support to counter armed groups threatening local stability. Over 7 million people have been affected by this prolonged conflict, which has become one of the worst humanitarian crises worldwide.
Rebel forces, approximately 4,000 troops strong, threaten to advance further into Congo, with intentions of reaching the capital city, Kinshasa. The U.N. has initiated an investigation into human rights violations amidst allegations of severe atrocities committed by both the M23 and the Congolese army. Doctors Without Borders has reported damage to its facilities due to the conflict, raising alarms about the safety of civilians and the potential for increasing casualties in Walikale, where fear has driven many residents to flee.
The situation in Walikale, Congo, illustrates a grave escalation in the ongoing conflict, primarily driven by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. This advance poses significant threats to both local governance and humanitarian conditions, especially amid a backdrop of previous failed ceasefire attempts. With critical mineral resources at stake and a rising humanitarian crisis, the international community’s engagement is increasingly vital to addressing the complexities of this conflict.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
