M23 Rebels Capture Walikale: Escalation of Conflict in Eastern DRC

M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized Walikale, a key mining town in eastern DRC, marking their furthest westward advance. The capture has caused significant civilian displacement and continues to exacerbate the conflict, despite calls for a ceasefire from both DRC and Rwandan leaders. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, yet the rebels remain defiant about their cause.

The M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by the Rwandan army, has captured the strategic town of Walikale in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with minimal resistance. This event marks the group’s furthest advancement west since its emergence in 2012. Security sources confirmed the takeover occurred amid ongoing calls for a ceasefire from both the DRC and Rwandan governments.

Walikale is vital due to its status as a mining hub in North Kivu province. Reports indicate that the Congolese military, known as FARDC, retreated to prevent further casualties, now positioned approximately 30 kilometers away. The offensive has already resulted in numerous injuries among civilians, prompting some local leaders to express concern for the town’s residents.

The capture has triggered a mass exodus, with thousands of Walikale’s inhabitants fleeing towards Kisangani for safety. Local sources confirm that the rebels are now firmly in control of the town, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation in the region. Earlier in the month, M23 also took Nyabiondo city, continuing an aggressive campaign against government forces.

Efforts to mediate the conflict intensified following calls for peace from both President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. However, despite these diplomatic overtures, M23 has rejected the discussions, claiming they do not address the root causes of their uprising and asserting their commitment to continue fighting until their grievances are acknowledged.

The capture of Walikale by M23 underscores the complex and escalating conflict in eastern DRC, threatening regional stability. With ongoing military advances and significant displacement of civilians, the situation calls for urgent diplomatic intervention and humanitarian assistance. The rejection of recent talks highlights the challenges in achieving lasting peace and resolution.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com