M23 rebels stated they would withdraw from Walikale to support peace negotiations. This follows their recent pullout from talks with the Congolese government linked to EU sanctions. The government hopes this withdrawal indicates a shift towards dialogue, although military officials express skepticism regarding the rebels’ true intentions and ongoing troop movements.
M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, announced their plans to withdraw from the town of Walikale in eastern Congo to promote peace efforts. Previously, they had occupied the town while advancing towards the capital, but in a statement on Saturday, they affirmed their commitment to repositioning forces in line with ceasefire agreements established earlier this year.
The Congolese government expressed hope that this withdrawal would lead to meaningful progress in peace negotiations, particularly following M23’s recent withdrawal from proposed talks with authorities, citing EU sanctions affecting its leaders. This occasion represented a potential opportunity for dialogue, as President Felix Tshisekedi had recently signaled willingness to engage with the rebels.
The Congo River Alliance, which includes the M23, stated the repositioning of forces was necessary to allow for peace initiatives, although skepticism from military officials persisted. Questions remain about the specifics of their withdrawal, and one anonymous senior alliance member stated that their aim was to keep Walikale demilitarized to prevent any resurgence of hostilities.
Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, the Foreign Affairs Minister, indicated that the government would be watching to see if the M23’s promises would translate into tangible actions towards dialogue and peace. The Congolese army, however, responded with doubt regarding the rebels’ intentions, noting reports of M23 advancing toward another town, Mubi, amid ongoing military operations.
The rebels’ capture of Walikale marks a significant point in their unprecedented advance, bringing them closer to key cities and ports in Congo. The conflict, deeply embedded in historical tensions since the 1994 Rwandan genocide, continues to elude resolution despite multiple attempts at peace, including violated ceasefires and discussions at regional summits.
The M23 rebels’ decision to withdraw from Walikale indicates a potential shift towards peace talks in eastern Congo. However, skepticism remains among military officials and government representatives, particularly due to the rebels’ recent troop movements. While there is hope for meaningful dialogue, the complex historical and regional factors underpinning the conflict render the situation precarious. Continued monitoring of M23’s actions will be essential to assess their genuine commitment to ceasefire and reconciliation efforts.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
