DR Congo Allegations Against Rwanda-Backed Rebels Over Ceasefire Violations

Rwanda-backed rebels, primarily the M23 militia, are reportedly expanding their control in eastern DRC despite a ceasefire agreement established with the Congolese government. The DRC military alleges that Rwanda is exploiting the truce to acquire territory, while local forces engage in ongoing clashes with the M23 near critical strongholds, intensifying the regional humanitarian crisis.

On Thursday, local sources reported to AFP that Rwanda-backed rebels have gained ground in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), prompting the Congolese military to accuse Rwanda of exploiting a ceasefire agreement to extend its territorial control. The M23 rebel group, predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis, initiated a new offensive in late 2021 and has since captured significant areas in eastern DRC, resulting in widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis. Despite a ceasefire established between Rwanda and the DRC in early August, the M23 militia has continued its aggressive actions, specifically targeting the strategically vital town of Pinga in North Kivu province. The military command in this region asserted that the Congolese forces were adhering to the ceasefire, while accusing Rwanda of “taking advantage” of the arrangement to gain control over various locations. Although the Congolese and Rwandan military forces have generally upheld the truce, armed factions affiliated with both countries frequently breach it. On October 23, the M23 militia captured the contested town of Kalembe following clashes with the Wazalendo, a coalition of militias supporting the Congolese army. Since then, the M23 has continued to capture towns leading towards Pinga, which is regarded as a stronghold for the Wazalendo and features one of the few airstrips in the region. As of Thursday, fighting has ensued between the DRC armed forces, the Wazalendo, and M23 near Pinga. Local sources, insisting on anonymity, confirmed the reported clashes, stating that the Congolese armed forces have dispatched reinforcements to the area. No casualties have been reported so far. Following the M23’s capture of Kalembe, Angola, the mediator of the ceasefire agreement, condemned the M23’s actions as a “flagrant violation” of the truce. Furthermore, France has expressed its criticism of the ongoing offensives carried out by the M23.

The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is fraught with complexity, characterized by its rich mineral resources and a history of conflict fueled by rivalries among various armed groups. The M23, a rebel group originally formed in 2012, has re-emerged, clashing with government forces and other militias. This resurgence is intertwined with longstanding ethnic tensions, particularly those involving Tutsis and Hutus, which continue to underscore the region’s instability. The ceasefire agreement brokered between Rwanda and the DRC was intended to offer a relief from hostilities; however, violations have persisted, undermining efforts for peace.

In conclusion, the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC remains precarious, as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels continue their offensives despite a truce with the Congolese government. The situation has resulted in significant territorial gains for the M23 and sparked accusations from the DRC military regarding Rwanda’s role in these developments. As clashes persist and humanitarian crises escalate, the need for a comprehensive resolution is increasingly critical, with international observers calling for accountability and peace in this volatile region.

Original Source: www.barrons.com