M23 and Rwandan troops have launched a new offensive in eastern DRC, capturing the mining town of Nyabibwe in South Kivu as they advance towards Bukavu. This follows a recent unilateral ceasefire declaration by the M23, which was quickly violated. The situation threatens the Congolese government’s stability and has prompted increased military readiness among neighboring nations.
On Wednesday, the M23 armed group, alongside Rwandan forces, initiated a fresh offensive in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), successfully capturing the mining town of Nyabibwe in South Kivu province. This act marks an escalation of their advance towards Bukavu, the regional capital, following the recent capture of Goma in North Kivu.
Shortly after declaring a unilateral humanitarian ceasefire intended to commence on Tuesday, intense clashes erupted between the M23 forces and the Congolese armed forces, according to security sources. The Congolese government reacted by asserting that the ceasefire was merely a tactic, with spokesman Patrick Muyaya noting that past ceasefires had been routinely violated.
Local military sources indicate that both the DRC military and their M23-Rwanda counterparts are reinforcing their presence in the region. In the wake of Goma’s capture, violence has surged, prompting concerns about possible broader conflict while stakeholders such as the United Nations and regional powers work toward diplomatic resolutions.
The precarious situation threatens the stability of President Felix Tshisekedi’s government, as the M23 group continues its territorial gains. Leaders from the East African Community and Southern African Development Community are scheduled to meet in Dar es Salaam to discuss the escalating crisis.
Amid this turmoil, neighboring countries, including Uganda, have enhanced their military readiness, with concerns that armed groups may exploit the instability. Furthermore, Burundi’s President has accused Rwanda of potentially engaging in hostilities against his nation, amidst allegations of Rwandan troop presence in DRC to exploit mineral resources.
Rwanda has consistently denied direct military involvement with the M23 while blaming the DRC for harboring rival armed groups. The ongoing strife in eastern DRC, home to vast mineral reserves essential for global technology, remains a focal point of international attention.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has been characterized by longstanding volatility and the involvement of multiple armed groups, including the M23, which has received reported backing from Rwanda. The region is rich in valuable minerals such as coltan and gold, heightening its strategic importance and contributing to the persistence of hostilities. Numerous ceasefires have been declared in the past, yet they have frequently broken down, leading to continued violence and destabilization.
In summary, the recent escalation of conflict in eastern DRC, marked by the M23’s offensive and territorial gains, raises significant concerns about regional stability and humanitarian conditions. Despite declarations of ceasefires, hostilities persist with dire implications for local populations and the broader geopolitical landscape. The role of neighboring countries and regional organizations will be critical in addressing the crisis and seeking a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
