Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized control of the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, despite recent ceasefire calls from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. Their advance disrupts vital transportation routes, heightening tensions and humanitarian crises in the region, which is rich in minerals. Temporary halts in mining operations due to the conflict have also been reported.
On late Wednesday, Rwandan-backed M23 rebels entered the critical town of Walikale in eastern Congo, a move that defies recent calls for a ceasefire from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. The presence of the rebels has been confirmed at various localities in Walikale, as stated by Prince Kihangi, a former provincial deputy. He noted their visibility at specific locations, including a notable monument and the Bakusu group office.
By seizing Walikale, the M23 has effectively disrupted a vital road that connects the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema, thereby isolating positions held by the Congolese army. Fiston Misona, a civil society activist, reported heavy artillery fire throughout the day followed by intermittent gunfire in the evening, indicating a tense situation, with the Congolese army seemingly non-responsive to the attacks.
The escalation in violence followed unexpected talks held in Qatar by the leaders of Congo and Rwanda, wherein both leaders advocated for an unconditional ceasefire. Discussions aimed at reconciling the Congolese government and M23 had previously faltered, notably after the European Union imposed sanctions on M23 leadership.
The ongoing strife, which intensified since January when M23 took control of Goma, continues to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo, with over seven million individuals displaced. The M23 rebels reportedly receive support from approximately 4,000 troops stationed in Rwanda, and they have expressed ambitions of advancing towards Kinshasa, the capital of Congo.
In recent developments, the U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated a commission to investigate severe human rights violations, including accusations of killing and sexual violence committed by both parties. The Walikale region is particularly significant due to its large tin and gold deposits. Notably, the operations at the Bisie tin mine have been temporarily halted due to the advancing rebel forces, which have critical implications for regional mining output.
The incursion of M23 rebels into Walikale signifies a critical escalation in the ongoing violence in eastern Congo, especially against the backdrop of a call for ceasefire by regional leaders. The implications of this conflict extend beyond military confrontations, deeply affecting the humanitarian crisis and economic activities related to the region’s valuable mineral deposits. The international community’s response and investigation into human rights violations will be crucial in resolving this complex situation.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
