M23 Rebels Capture Mineral-Rich Town in Congo Amid Ceasefire Calls

M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, captured Walikale in eastern Congo despite ceasefire calls from Congo and Rwanda. This development poses a serious concern as it disrupts control over significant mineral resources and heightens humanitarian crises in the region. As fighting continues, the implications for civilians and potential international responses are increasingly urgent.

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have captured another strategic town, Walikale, in eastern Congo, despite recent calls for a ceasefire from Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This conflict, escalating since January, has seen the M23 seize key areas such as Goma and Bukavu earlier this year. The recent hostilities followed unsuccessful ceasefire negotiations facilitated by the European Union, leading to the rebels entering Walikale late Wednesday, claiming the town had been ‘liberated.’

Walikale is crucial as it connects four provinces: North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema, effectively isolating Congolese army positions. Residents report heavy artillery fire followed by sporadic gunfire, raising concerns for the local population’s safety. Civil society activist Fiston Misona highlighted the apprehension felt, stating that the Congolese army was no longer engaging in battle.

The M23 rebels announced they would uphold a ceasefire, citing the need to protect civilians from alleged attacks by Congolese forces. They asserted that their entry into Walikale was a defensive action. Despite the ceasefire declaration, they warned of potential retaliation if civilians were provoked. The Congolese government has yet to respond to these developments.

Walikale is renowned for its vast mineral resources, including substantial tin and gold deposits. The Bisie tin mine, vital for North Kivu’s economy, has halted operations in light of the rebel offensive. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi indicated a willingness to negotiate with the United States regarding critical minerals, seeking American assistance to manage armed groups in the region.

The M23 is one among numerous armed factions operating in eastern Congo, contributing to a dire humanitarian crisis that has displaced over seven million people. They have received support from Rwandan military troops and have ambitions of extending their control closer to Kinshasa, Congo’s capital, approximately 1,600 kilometers away. Additionally, the U.N. Human Rights Council is investigating alleged atrocities by both conflicting parties.

Doctors Without Borders reported being caught in the ongoing violence, with their facilities damaged due to nearby gunfire. They voiced their concerns about the influx of wounded patients at the local hospital amid an emerging humanitarian crisis, explaining that the townspeople had fled in fear amid the escalating insecurity in recent weeks.

The situation in Walikale highlights the ongoing conflict involving Rwanda-backed M23 rebels and the Congolese army, exacerbated by mineral wealth and humanitarian challenges. The capture of Walikale intensifies the struggle for regional dominance, affecting both security and civilian safety. As calls for ceasefire and international intervention continue, the humanitarian implications remain dire, necessitating urgent attention and action from global entities.

Original Source: www.newspressnow.com