M23 Rebels Capture Key Town in Eastern Congo, Ignore Ceasefire Pleas
M23 rebels in Eastern Congo have captured Walikale and dismissed ceasefire requests from Kinshasa and Kigali. Their leader asserts that their fight is for Congolese people. Amidst accusations of Rwandan support, the conflict remains rooted in historical tensions concerning mineral wealth.
The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has dismissed calls for a ceasefire from both Kinshasa and Kigali. The leader, Corneille Nangaa, stated that the requests do not concern them as the rebels captured the strategic town of Walikale, their furthest advance westward, which has significant mineral resources, including tin. This victory positions the rebels strategically, as they now control a critical road network in eastern Congo.
Reports indicate that M23 has taken complete control of Walikale, which has a population of approximately 15,000, despite the wounding of several residents during the conflict. The Congolese army has not responded to inquiries regarding the situation. Civil society activist Fiston Misona noted that the rebels are visibly present in the town, with local hospitals treating injured residents.
Following a surprise meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Doha, a call for an immediate ceasefire was issued. However, M23 leader Nangaa rejected the appeal, emphasizing that their actions are not directed by Rwanda but are rooted in a cause for Congolese people. He remarked that discussions in Doha would not affect their stance without concrete resolutions for their issues.
The M23 conflict is attributed to long-standing tensions, stemming from Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for mineral wealth, becoming Eastern Congo’s most severe conflict since the late 90s wars. The United Nations and various governments have accused Rwanda of supplying arms and troops to M23, a claim that Rwanda has refuted, insisting they act in self-defense against the Congolese military.
Direct talks were anticipated between Kinshasa and M23 in Angola; however, M23 canceled their participation, citing European Union sanctions on some of their leaders. Analysts suggest that M23’s recent military successes have bolstered their confidence. Nangaa has reiterated their desire for direct dialogue with the Congolese government, emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution and improved governance for Tutsis in Congo.
The M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo have escalated their position by capturing Walikale, rejecting ceasefire calls amid ongoing conflict. Their leader insists their actions are driven by Congolese interests, despite external pressures and accusations against Rwanda for support. The situation illustrates the complexity of the ongoing conflict in Eastern Congo, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue to resolve the issues at hand.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
