M23 rebels entered Walikale, Congo, defying a ceasefire call from Congolese and Rwandan leaders. Their control of the town disrupts supply routes for the Congolese army. Amid ongoing violence, including heavy artillery, local activists express deep concerns over the military’s inaction. The conflict, fueled by external support and rich mineral resources, exacerbates the humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
On Wednesday, M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, entered the strategic town of Walikale in eastern Congo, disregarding a recent call for an immediate ceasefire by the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. Local leaders confirmed the presence of the rebels, stating they are now visible at key locations around the town. This move gives the rebels control over a vital road connecting four eastern provinces, effectively isolating Congolese army positions.
Artillery fire was reported throughout the day, eventually giving way to sporadic gunshots in the evening, according to civil society activist Fiston Misona. He expressed feelings of abandonment, stating, “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting. It’s as if we were being sacrificed.”
No immediate statements were made by either the M23 rebels or the Congolese government regarding the situation. This escalation follows diplomatic talks held in Qatar between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda, during which they demanded a ceasefire. The talks occurred after unsuccessful attempts to negotiate peace between the government and M23 leaders.
The conflict in eastern Congo has intensified since January, culminating in the capture of Goma and subsequent advances towards Bukavu. M23 is one of many armed groups operating in this mineral-rich region, which has experienced significant humanitarian crises, with more than seven million people displaced.
The presence of Rwandan troops, estimated at around 4,000, further complicates the situation, as the rebels have voiced ambitions to reach Kinshasa, the capital of Congo. The U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into human rights violations committed by both factions during this ongoing conflict.
Walikale possesses rich mineral resources, including the largest tin deposits in the country and several gold mines. The critical Bisie tin mine, vital for the province’s tin exports, has halted operations temporarily due to the advancing rebels, as reported by its operator, Alphamin Resources.
The entry of M23 rebels into Walikale highlights the ongoing instability in eastern Congo despite calls for an immediate ceasefire. The geopolitical implications of foreign involvement and the humanitarian consequences continue to escalate, underpinning the urgency for a resolution. The region’s mineral wealth adds another layer of complexity to the conflict, as international attention focuses on the humanitarian crises and potential violations of human rights occurring within this turbulent zone.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
