Rwanda-Backed Rebels Capture Masisi in Eastern DR Congo, Escalating Conflict
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have seized the town of Masisi in eastern DRC, representing the second town captured in two days. This escalation continues amidst humanitarian crises as military reinforcements are sought. With claims of Rwandan involvement, the M23’s actions raise concerns over regional stability and resource exploitation.
Rebel forces allied with Rwanda have taken control of the town of Masisi in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking the second town captured by the M23 group in just two days. Since 2021, the M23 has gained extensive territories in the mineral-rich North Kivu province, prompting the displacement of hundreds of thousands. Efforts by Angola to facilitate peace talks between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have stalled. Alexis Bahunga, a member of the North Kivu provincial assembly, expressed concern, stating that the situation has led to a severe humanitarian crisis and urged for military reinforcements in the area. A resident reported that the M23 held a gathering in the town, asserting their mission was to “liberate the country”. Masisi, with a population of approximately 40,000, is about 50 miles from Goma, the provincial capital, which the M23 previously occupied in 2012. Following the capture of Masisi, the M23 had also seized the nearby town of Katale. Although there were initial concerns of an advance toward Goma, fighting had subsided until recently. A UN report from July revealed the presence of around 4,000 Rwandan soldiers supporting the M23. Rwanda has criticized the Congolese government for not adequately addressing years of conflict in the eastern DRC, even alleging cooperation with figures involved in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The M23 emerged in 2012 as a splinter group, claiming to protect the Tutsi community in eastern DRC. However, accusations against Rwanda suggest that the M23 is also involved in extracting valuable minerals such as gold and cobalt, which are essential for technology and electric vehicle batteries. In a related development, the DRC is suing tech giant Apple over the sourcing of so-called “blood minerals”, prompting Apple to publicly state that it ceased its supply chain dealings with the DRC.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has deep roots, characterized by a complex interplay of ethnic tensions, resource exploitation, and the legacy of past genocides. The M23 rebel group, which emerged in 2012, presents itself as a protector of the Tutsi minority, who have faced historical discrimination. However, they have also been implicated in the exploitation of the region’s rich mineral resources. Neighboring Rwanda’s involvement has been particularly contentious, with allegations that it supports rebel activities while exploiting DRC’s minerals. The recent advances by the M23 disrupt existing stability and threaten humanitarian conditions for the local populace.
The capture of Masisi by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels signifies an alarming escalation in the conflict within eastern DRC, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. As calls for governmental intervention grow, it remains crucial to monitor the actions of both the rebel forces and the Congolese government in addressing the underlying issues driving the conflict. The international community’s response and mediation efforts may also play a vital role in restoring peace and stability to the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
