M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have advanced towards Masisi in eastern DRC by capturing the Katale region, exacerbating an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Recent peace talks between DRC and Rwanda were canceled due to disagreements. Local authorities report civilian casualties and extensive displacement, highlighting the urgency for resolution in the region.
On Friday, M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, advanced towards a significant town in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo by taking control of the Katale region. This development is part of the ongoing offensive by the March 23 Movement (M23), which has been seizing large territories in eastern DRC since 2021, leading to extensive displacement and escalating a humanitarian crisis. Disagreements over a proposed peace agreement led to the abrupt cancellation of talks in December between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Reports indicate that M23 now occupies the Katale area, which is critical for accessing Masisi, the administrative capital of Masisi territory. Local leaders have confirmed the capture and noted that the civilian population has been forced to flee toward Masisi. “We have been attacked by the rebels… the enemy controls Katale,” stated a security source under anonymity. Thierry Muhindo, a local leader, affirmed, “We confirm the capture of Katale by the M23 rebels, for the moment the population has fled towards Masisi centre.”
Additionally, Telesphore Mitondeke, the president of Masisi civil society, spoke to the tragic situation on the ground, emphasizing the number of casualties during the confrontations, though exact figures are not yet available. He remarked that the human toll of the conflict is “revolting.” Situated about 80 kilometers north of Goma, Masisi continues to experience violence amidst the backdrop of historical conflicts involving various armed factions in the region. Furthermore, M23 rebels maintain a strong position, lying approximately 50 kilometers from Lubero and 100 kilometers from the vital commercial hub of Butembo.
The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been characterized by longstanding instability and conflict, primarily fueled by the actions of various armed groups, including the M23 rebels. The M23 militia emerged from a complex history that traces back to regional conflicts in the 1990s. Supported by Rwanda, the group has actively pursued territorial control, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis as countless residents are displaced from their homes. Attempts at diplomatic resolutions, such as recent peace talks mediated by Angola, have frequently stalled due to disagreements, leading to further escalations of violence.
The advancement of M23 rebels towards Masisi marks a troubling escalation in ongoing conflicts in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, with significant implications for the local population. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, pushing civilians to flee in search of safety. It is imperative for international stakeholders to address the situation promptly to prevent further deterioration of stability and to facilitate a meaningful peace process that addresses the root causes of the ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
