M23 rebels in eastern Congo reject ceasefire calls, capturing Walikale. Their advance poses risks of escalating regional conflict, with significant implications for stability. Direct negotiations are urged to address governance issues and ethnic tensions.
The leader of the M23 rebels in eastern Congo stated that the calls for a ceasefire from Kinshasa and Kigali “doesn’t concern us,” as the rebels seized control of the strategic town of Walikale. This advance marks a significant territorial gain for the rebels, pushing deeper into Congolese territory, having already overrun major cities in the region. Walikale, with a population of 15,000, is known for its mineral riches, particularly tin, and serves as a link between four provinces.
The ongoing conflict, exacerbated by historical tensions stemming from Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition over mineral wealth, is escalating into a broader regional conflict, with troops from Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi involved. The capture of Walikale positions the rebels approximately 400 km from Kisangani, the country’s fourth-largest city, raising concerns about the regional implications of this military action.
Following talks in Doha, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame called for a ceasefire. However, the M23 leader rejected this appeal, asserting that their fight is not directed by Rwanda. “What happened in Doha, as long as we don’t know the details… we’ll say it doesn’t concern us,” stated Corneille Nangaa, head of the Congo River Alliance.
Despite expectations of direct negotiations in Angola, M23 withdrew from the discussions, citing European Union sanctions imposed on its leaders and Rwandan officials. Analysts interpret this withdrawal as indicative of the rebels’ confidence from their recent military gains. Nangaa has reiterated the M23’s demand for direct dialogue with Kinshasa, emphasizing the necessity for discussions to address the issue of Tutsi persecution in Congo and advocate for better governance.
In summary, the M23 rebels in eastern Congo have firmly dismissed the calls for a ceasefire from both Congolese and Rwandan leaders, seizing control of the strategically significant town of Walikale. This situation reflects the deteriorating security landscape in the region, where escalating conflict risks drawing in multiple nations. The rebels advocate for direct dialogue with the Congolese government to address their grievances and seek peaceful resolutions.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
