M23 rebels captured Nyabibwe in eastern Congo despite a ceasefire declaration. Fighting continues as Malawi prepares to withdraw its peacekeeping troops in response to the conflict. Over 900 deaths have been reported due to clashes, with thousands fleeing to Rwanda, highlighting the urgent humanitarian crisis.
On Wednesday, the M23 rebels captured Nyabibwe in South Kivu province, despite a recent unilateral ceasefire declared by the Alliance Fleuve Congo. This ceasefire, initiated on Tuesday to address humanitarian concerns, followed the M23’s prior control of Goma, the neighboring North Kivu capital. However, fierce hostilities erupted between the rebels and Congolese forces on Wednesday morning, according to local media reports.
Nyabibwe, positioned between Goma and Bukavu, was reported by a Kalehe territory official as being under M23 control. In response to inquiries, an M23 spokesman indicated he was unavailable for immediate comment. Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner emphasized the need for tangible actions to affirm the ceasefire’s legitimacy, calling for evidence that it is more than a mere symbolic gesture.
The World Health Organization stated that recent clashes have resulted in over 900 fatalities in Goma in just two weeks, including the deaths of 20 peacekeepers, 14 of whom were South African. Many civilians have been displaced, with thousands fleeing to Rwanda, including personnel from the UN and World Bank.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera has mandated the Malawi Defense Forces to prepare for troop withdrawal from eastern Congo. This decision aligns with the declared ceasefire and aims to facilitate negotiations for sustainable peace in the region, following the loss of three Malawian soldiers during the conflict with M23.
Malawi’s contribution of peacekeeping troops is part of the southern African regional bloc, SADC, demonstrating regional commitment to stability in Eastern Congo. The evolving situation highlights the complexities of the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for effective humanitarian responses and peace negotiations.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, particularly involving M23 rebels, has become increasingly severe. The capture of key cities like Goma and Nyabibwe reveals the deteriorating security conditions amid proclamations of ceasefire, often undermined by continuous hostilities. The humanitarian toll has been catastrophic, claiming numerous lives and displacing thousands. International and regional interventions, including peacekeeping efforts by Malawi, further mirror the struggle to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
The recent seizure of Nyabibwe by M23 rebels amid a proclaimed ceasefire underscores the fragile situation in eastern Congo. Despite efforts for peace, intense fighting continues, contributing to significant loss of life and displacement. The withdrawal of Malawian troops indicates a regional attempt to recalibrate peacekeeping strategies in light of ongoing violence. As humanitarian crises deepen, the need for credible, evidence-supported ceasefire measures becomes increasingly apparent to foster true stability.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
