Clashes between M23 rebels and Congolese militias have intensified in eastern DRC, particularly in Nyabiondo, following a deadly civilian attack. An official stated M23 seized control of Nyabiondo, with reports of ongoing violence and increased civilian casualties. The conflict is fueled by accusations of external support and political tensions surrounding power dynamics in Kinshasa.
Fighting between M23 rebels and pro-Congo militias continues in Nyabiondo, located approximately 100 kilometers north of Goma in eastern Congo. This escalation follows a recent attack that reportedly caused a significant civilian death toll, as reported by the United Nations and a local NGO. Reports indicate that the M23 group has gained extensive control over mineral-rich areas of eastern Congo since the beginning of the year.
Kipanda Biiri, an official fleeing the conflict, stated, “M23 has taken Nyabiondo since 11 a.m. [local time] (0900 GMT), following clashes.” Local civil society rapporteur, Telesphore Mitondeke, noted, “The enemy opened a large-scale assault on Nyabiondo this morning,” highlighting the ongoing violence in the region.
This current situation follows fierce clashes the previous week in Tambi village, northeast of Masisi, which concluded with an attack that left numerous civilians dead on March 5, as reported by a local NGO. An internal UN memo indicated that fatalities from this attack could range from 13 to 40 civilians.
Additionally, a spokesperson for the M23 alliance announced that a local pro-government militia had switched allegiance to their side. However, a representative from the formerly affiliated militia stated their group remained committed to the Congolese government. The M23 rebels assert their goal is to seize power in Kinshasa and claim that the government has failed to abide by peace agreements concerning the integration of Congolese Tutsis into military positions.
International analysts assert that the M23’s expansion into new mineral-rich territories increases their potential for mining revenue. The DRC government has persistently accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, while Rwanda counters by accusing Kinshasa of collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militant group connected to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda. The DRC officially categorizes the M23 as a terrorist organization, while international bodies like the UN and the United States classify it as an armed rebel group.
The ongoing conflict involving M23 rebels and pro-Congolese militias highlights the persistent instability in eastern DRC, exacerbated by recent civilian attacks and shifting allegiances among local armed groups. The M23’s territorial gains raise concerns regarding increased violence and political aggression towards Kinshasa, while accusations between Rwanda and the DRC further complicate the situation. Both national and international observers continue to monitor the humanitarian crisis stemming from these conflicts.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
