Congo Rebels Capture Key Town, Dismiss Ceasefire Proposals

M23 rebels in the DRC dismiss ceasefire calls as they capture Walikale, marking a significant territorial gain. The conflict involves regional dimensions as various countries participate, with calls for direct negotiations with the Congolese government amid historical grievances.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the leader of the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group has dismissed calls for an immediate ceasefire from Kinshasa and Kigali. This statement came as the rebels successfully captured the strategically important town of Walikale, marking their furthest advance westward since January. Walikale’s capture follows intense fighting that led to its fall, amidst a conflict rooted in historical tensions and competition over lucrative mineral resources.

The conflict in eastern Congo has escalated into what some experts describe as a potential regional war, involving troops from Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi. With the takeover of Walikale, which boasts rich mineral deposits and lies on a crucial transport route, the rebels are now positioned just 400 km from Kisangani, the fourth-largest city in Congo, enhancing their strategic advantage.

President Felix Tshisekedi of Congo and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda had recently convened for talks in Doha, urging for an immediate halt to hostilities. However, the M23 leadership has rejected this ceasefire appeal, asserting their autonomy in the conflict. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, emphasized that the group is independently fighting for their cause and dismissed the Doha discussions as irrelevant without concrete solutions to their challenges.

Despite anticipation of direct talks between Kinshasa and the M23, the rebel group withdrew from a scheduled meeting due to European Union sanctions imposed on some of its leaders. This withdrawal indicates the group’s confidence stemming from their recent victories. Nangaa reiterated the necessity of direct talks with the Congolese government to address ongoing conflict issues, emphasizing the M23’s demands for improved governance and the cessation of perceived persecution against Tutsis in Congo.

In summary, the M23 rebels in eastern Congo have effectively dismissed ceasefire proposals amid their recent territorial gains, notably capturing the critical town of Walikale. The ongoing conflict reflects historical complexities and a struggle for resources. As disputes continue, the potential for direct negotiations exists, although the rebels’ withdrawal from proposed talks highlights their current confidence and commitment to their demands.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv