M23 rebels seized Nyabibwe in eastern Congo amid a declared ceasefire, following their takeover of Goma. Intense fighting with the Congolese army has resulted in significant casualties. Malawi’s President has ordered troop withdrawals from the region to support peace negotiations, marking a critical step towards regional stability.
The M23 rebels have captured Nyabibwe, a city in South Kivu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite a recently declared unilateral ceasefire. The ceasefire was announced by the Alliance Fleuve Congo, which comprises the M23, due to pressing humanitarian concerns following their takeover of Goma, North Kivu’s capital. However, violent confrontations persisted between the rebels and the Congolese army early Wednesday, resulting in significant casualties.
Nyabibwe lies strategically between Goma and Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu. An official from the Kalehe territory confirmed that the M23 had seized control of the city. When approached for comment, an M23 spokesperson indicated they would provide a statement later due to being preoccupied.
The Congolese situation is dire, as reported by the World Health Organization, with more than 900 deaths recorded in Goma within the previous fortnight amid escalating conflicts. The violence has also targeted peacekeepers, with 20 soldiers killed, among them 14 from South Africa, prompting significant displacements, including UN and World Bank personnel, many of whom have fled to Rwanda.
In a decision aimed at contributing to peace efforts, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera ordered the immediate preparation for the withdrawal of Malawian troops engaged in peacekeeping operations in eastern Congo. This action aligns with honoring the recently declared ceasefire and facilitating negotiations for a lasting resolution to the ongoing violence in the region.
Malawi is part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which contributes peacekeeping forces to eastern Congo. The country was propelled towards this decision following the loss of three soldiers in clashes with M23 rebels in Goma.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo involves multiple armed groups, with the M23 rebels being notably active in recent weeks. The M23, known for its military prowess and formerly for its significant territorial control, has ramped up its activities in areas like Goma and South Kivu. The government’s struggle against these factions has led to severe humanitarian consequences, with numerous civilian casualties and mass displacements. The declaration of a ceasefire and subsequent troop withdrawals underscore the complexities of achieving stability in this volatile region.
The capture of Nyabibwe by M23 rebels illustrates the tumultuous security situation in eastern DRC, despite attempts at ceasefire. Malawi’s directive for troop withdrawal highlights regional efforts toward peace and stability in a landscape marred by violence and humanitarian crises. Ongoing conflict continues to pose risks to both civilians and peacekeeping forces, indicating the need for a concrete resolution and effective international intervention.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
