M23 Rebels Capture Key Town Walikale in Eastern DRC Amid Escalating Conflict
M23 rebels have captured Walikale, a key mining town in eastern DRC, with little resistance. This marks the group’s furthest advance west since their emergence in 2012. Thousands are fleeing the area, and the conflict has intensified despite diplomatic efforts. The United Nations accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, complicating the situation further.
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have successfully captured Walikale, a strategic mining hub in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This development, confirmed by local and security sources, occurred almost without conflict and represents a significant territorial advancement for M23. Despite ongoing calls for a ceasefire from both the DRC and Rwanda, the group now maintains control over this vital region in North Kivu province.
The takeover was confirmed by security sources, stating that DRC’s military retreated to prevent further casualties. Local civil society representatives reported visible M23 presence in the town and noted that several individuals were injured. The capture of Walikale marks the farthest west the rebels have progressed since their emergence in 2012, heightening concerns regarding the ongoing conflict.
Walikale, with a population of around 15,000, is approximately 125 km from Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, and poses a threat to the proximity of M23 to Kisangani, DRC’s fourth-largest city. Reports indicate that thousands of residents are fleeing towards Kisangani, seeking refuge from the armed violence. In recent weeks, M23 has made significant territorial gains, having captured other key cities, including Nyabiondo and Bukavu.
The offensive has had economic consequences, with the mining company Alphamin evacuating staff and ceasing operations at its Bisie tin mine due to the escalating conflict. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis are intensifying; however, a failed attempt at direct talks between the DRC government and M23 highlights the ongoing tensions. The United Nations has accused Rwanda of providing military support to M23, a claim denied by Kigali.
In remarks to Reuters, Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, emphasized their commitment to continue fighting until their demands are met, indicating the complexity of the peace negotiations. The ongoing violence has resulted in the displacement of tens of thousands, compounding the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The M23 rebels’ capture of Walikale signals a significant shift in the dynamics of eastern DRC’s conflict. While diplomatic efforts continue, the group’s military advancements have resulted in humanitarian crises, significant territorial gains, and increased regional instability. The situation remains precarious as negotiations falter, highlighting the urgent need for resolution and support for affected communities.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
