M23 rebels in eastern Congo have captured Walikale, dismissing ceasefire appeals from Congo and Rwanda. This conflict, tied to regional issues, has escalated tensions, with direct talks between the M23 and Congolese government contested. Analysts highlight the importance of negotiations in achieving peace amid growing military actions and regional involvement.
In Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebel leader stated that calls for an immediate ceasefire from Kinshasa and Kigali “doesn’t concern us,” as his forces continued their advance by capturing Walikale. This strategic town, with a population of 15,000, marks the rebels’ furthest west position during their accelerated progress that began in January, having already taken control of eastern Congo’s major cities.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, linked to the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for mineral wealth, presents the most severe upheaval seen since the 1998-2003 war which involved several neighboring nations and resulted in countless casualties. Experts warn that the involvement of troops from Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi indicates a potential expansion of this local conflict into a broader regional war.
Nestor Mavudisa, a spokesperson for the Congolese army, noted, “The enemy now controls Walikale.” Its capture grants M23 strategic access to a mineral-rich area near vital transport links, bringing them within 400 km of Kisangani, the nation’s fourth-largest city, which lies on the Congo River’s navigable route.
Following a surprise meeting in Doha between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, calls for a ceasefire were issued. However, M23 leader Corneille Nangaa disregarded the appeal, asserting, “We are Congolese who are fighting for a cause,” and emphasized that until the details of the discussions are known and issues resolved, the ceasefire does not concern his forces.
There were expectations for direct negotiations between Congo and M23 following Tshisekedi’s approach to dialogue, but the M23 withdrew, citing European Union sanctions on some of its leaders. This withdrawal illustrates their confidence stemming from recent military successes. Nangaa maintained that direct talks with Kinshasa are vital for conflict resolution, emphasizing their call for an end to Tutsi persecution in Congo and improvements in governance. “We demand that if there is a dialogue, it be a direct dialogue,” he stated.
The international community, including the United Nations, has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 with arms and military assistance, a claim that Rwanda denies, asserting its actions are purely defensive against the Congolese army and associated militias.
The statement by M23 rebels dismissing ceasefire calls exemplifies the escalating tensions in eastern Congo, with the capture of Walikale signifying a critical development in the conflict. The situation is further complicated by regional dynamics involving Rwanda and Burundi. As both parties prepare for potential discussions, the necessity for direct contact remains paramount in settling the ongoing strife. The international community continues to observe developments closely, given the potential implications for regional stability.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
