Crisis escalates as M23 advances, peace talks collapse

DESPITE diplomatic efforts to stop hostilities in the Eastern Congo, the M23 rebels have captured key cities, including Goma, Bukavu, and Walikale. Their advance has significantly weakened the Congolese military presence in the area, prompting local governance and displacing tens of thousands of civilians.

- NICHOLAS MWANGI

Walikale’s capture is particularly significant due to its rich mineral deposits, which provide crucial funding for armed groups operating in the region.

Steward Muhindo, a member of the Congolese civil society organisation, faclitates described the dire conditions faced by civilians in dialogue with People’s Dispatch.

“The situation is not good. The killings continue in areas controlled by M23. It’s challenging for civilians as there is no humanitarian assistance. Now, so many people have run because of war, and their homes including displacement camps have been destroyed. The humanitarian situation is very bad, and crimes against civilians at the hands of the M23 continue to be committed even in areas where the Congolese army is in control.”

M23’s claims to be fighting for the rights of ethnic Tutsis in eastern Congo, has faced international sanctions, particularly from the European Union.

In response, the rebels withdrew from the peace negotiations, further deepening the crisis. Their decision to walk away from dialogue has dashed hopes for a ceasefire and reinforced their commitment to achieving military dominance.

Last week, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Intermediary President Paul Kagame met in Addis Ababa in an attempt to broker peace.

However, despite releasing a joint statement calling for de-escalation, no concrete resolutions seem to have emerged.