M23 Rebels Capture Walikale: Escalation of Eastern DRC Conflict
M23 rebels have captured Walikale in eastern DRC, marking their furthest advance west since emerging in 2012. The capture was reportedly supported by the Rwandan army and occurred amid calls for ceasefire. Thousands are fleeing towards safety, and the conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns and disruptions in mining activities.
M23 rebels have captured Walikale, a significant town in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking their furthest advance into the DRC’s interior since their emergence in 2012. The seizure of this mining hub in North Kivu province occurred with minimal resistance, and reports indicate Rwandan army support for the M23 forces.
Walikale is home to approximately 15,000 people and lies about 125km from Goma, DRC’s largest city, positioning M23 within 400km of Kisangani. The town’s capture follows M23’s recent victories, including the towns of Nyabiondo and Bukavu. Concerns are growing over the humanitarian crisis, as thousands flee toward the neighboring province of Kisangani seeking safety.
Military sources from the DRC’s armed forces (FARDC) acknowledged the capture, stating they retreated to prevent further casualties. Civil society activist Fiston Misona reported injuries among residents, confirming that M23 is visibly present in the town. Despite these developments, the FARDC has not provided updates about the situation subsequently.
Recent diplomatic talks between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame aimed at negotiating a ceasefire did not deter ongoing conflict, as M23 had earlier withdrawn from potential negotiations citing sanctions imposed by the European Union against some of its leaders. The United Nations asserts that Rwanda has been providing military assistance to the M23, a claim that Kigali disputes.
The ripple effects of the conflict continue to affect local economies, with mining companies like Alphamin halting operations due to safety concerns. As the situation remains tense, diplomatic efforts are intensifying to address what is increasingly becoming eastern DRC’s most severe conflict since the late 1990s. The ongoing violence has displaced tens of thousands, according to the UN, presenting a looming humanitarian crisis.
The capture of Walikale marks a significant escalation in the conflict in eastern DRC, as M23 rebels continue their advance with alleged support from Rwanda. With the humanitarian situation deteriorating and thousands fleeing, diplomatic efforts are urgently needed to broker peace. The international community must closely monitor developments as the situation poses risks not only to regional stability but also to the welfare of the affected populations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
