M23 Rebels Capture Key Town Masisi in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have taken control of the strategic town of Masisi near Goma in eastern DRC. Local politicians express concern over the government’s ability to restore authority. The ongoing violence is exacerbated by displaced populations and postponed diplomatic efforts between Congo and Rwanda, with local organizations struggling to operate during the turmoil.
Rwanda-supported M23 insurgents have captured the critical eastern town of Masisi, located approximately 80 kilometers from Goma, the provincial capital, according to local political figures. This escalation comes amidst an ongoing M23 resurgence that began in 2022. Accusations against Rwanda persist, with the DRC and the United Nations alleging that it is providing military support to M23. In contrast, Rwanda asserts that its actions are purely defensive.
Local sentiment is tense, as detailed by provincial parliament member Alexis Bahunga who affirmed that the DRC government is poised to implement strategies to reclaim authority across the region. Another local representative, Jean-Pierre Ayobangira Safari, remarked that Masisi has been seized “for now.” Corneille Nangaa, leader of the anti-government Congo River Alliance, confirmed that insurgent forces had reached Masisi’s center the previous Saturday.
The ongoing violence in defiance of a ceasefire threatens to exacerbate an already dire situation, having displaced over 1.9 million individuals. A planned high-level dialogue between Congolese and Rwandan leaders was recently postponed, further dampening hopes for peace. Furthermore, an international organization’s representative in Masisi noted a state of shock among its staff, with operations hindered due to closures of local businesses, making supply retrieval increasingly difficult.
Reports indicate that personnel are unsure of how to evacuate the town amidst concerns of possible counteroffensive actions by Congolese forces.
The heightened conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly involving the M23 rebels, is grounded in long-standing ethnic and political tensions in the eastern region. The M23 group, predominantly composed of Tutsi members, has engaged in insurgent activities, claiming grievances against the Congolese government. The involvement of Rwanda, accused of backing the rebels with military resources, compounds the complexity of the situation, raising regional security concerns and leading to significant civilian displacement.
The recent seizure of Masisi by M23 rebels marks a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict in eastern Congo. The allegations of Rwandan support for the insurgents complicate the political landscape, while civilian communities continue to bear the brunt of the violence. With over 1.9 million displaced individuals, the urgency for a peaceful resolution becomes increasingly critical. Local leaders’ calls for government intervention reflect ongoing struggles for authority in the region amid international diplomatic setbacks.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
