M23 rebels have seized Masisi, a key town near Goma in eastern DRC, amid accusations of Rwandan support. The insurgency, which re-emerged in 2022, has caused significant displacement and jeopardized peace efforts, despite prior ceasefire agreements. Local officials express concern over the government’s ability to regain control and restore order.
M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have captured the vital eastern town of Masisi, located approximately 80 kilometers from Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This seizure highlights the resurgence of the Tutsi-led M23 insurgency that has been ongoing since 2022. Local politicians, including provincial parliament member Alexis Bahunga, confirmed the town’s capture, stating that the government plans to implement measures to reclaim state authority over the territory.
The M23 group has a complex history tied to ethnic tensions and conflicts in the eastern DRC. Initially formed around 2012, the group resurfaced in 2022 amid accusations that Rwanda supports its insurgency with military resources. This ongoing conflict has contributed to a significant humanitarian crisis, displacing approximately 1.9 million individuals in the region. The international community continues to seek resolutions to this escalating violence, although efforts have been challenged by recurring hostilities.
The seizure of Masisi by M23 rebels, underpinned by alleged Rwandan support, further destabilizes the situation in eastern Congo, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis faced by millions. The declaration from local authorities regarding government measures underscores the urgency for a resolution to ensure stability and security in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
