On January 4, 2023, M23 rebels backed by Rwanda seized the town of Masisi in eastern DRC, prompting humanitarian concerns. Local officials indicated an urgent need for enhanced military capabilities to address the crisis as residents flee to safety amidst ongoing violence. The DRC has a long history of conflict, with recent peace talks between DRC and Rwanda failing to prevent further escalation.
On January 4, 2023, Rwandan-supported March 23 Movement (M23) gained control of the strategic town of Masisi in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This militia has expanded its territory since 2021, leading to the displacement of thousands and creating a humanitarian emergency. Tensions escalated after Angola-mediated peace talks between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame collapsed in December 2022 due to disagreements over the proposed terms of a peace agreement.
Alexis Bahunga, the deputy of North Kivu province, expressed deep concern regarding the loss of Masisi, stating, “It is with dismay that we learn of the capture of Masisi center by the M23.” He emphasized that this development could further intensify the humanitarian crisis and urged the government to enhance the operational capabilities of the Congolese army (FARDC).
Local residents reported that the M23 had taken control of Masisi by 2:00 PM local time after convening a meeting to declare their intention to “liberate the country.” Although initial reports indicated that the town appeared calm, there were notable civilian injuries, and many sought refuge in local hospitals. A source indicated, “There were civilian injuries, but so far no deaths recorded at the hospital.”
The DRC has faced ongoing conflict for three decades in its mineral-rich eastern region, involving various local and foreign armed groups, which can be traced back to the regional wars of the 1990s. The situation of Masisi is yet another manifestation of the ongoing instability that continues to plague the region.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for many years, primarily due to its mineral wealth and the presence of various armed groups. The March 23 Movement (M23) emerged in the early 2010s and has been linked to the Rwandan government, which has often been accused of interfering in DRC’s internal affairs. The recent capture of Masisi has raised alarms about the humanitarian conditions in the region and the ongoing plight of civilians amidst renewed hostilities. Previous peace talks have failed to produce results, contributing to the worsening situation.
The seizure of Masisi by the M23 signifies a critical escalation in the conflict in eastern DRC, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis stemming from years of instability. The deputy of North Kivu province highlights the urgent need for strengthened military responses from the Congolese army to confront the advancing rebels. With a history of violence and displacement, the local population’s safety remains a paramount concern as regional tensions persist. Final outcomes depend on the resolution of deep-seated political and military challenges in the area.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
