M23 rebels have captured Nyabibwe in eastern Congo, escalating conflict despite a unilateral ceasefire. Malawi plans to withdraw its peacekeeping troops, following recent casualties. The humanitarian situation is worsening, with over 900 deaths reported in Goma due to fighting between rebels and government forces.
The M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo has captured Nyabibwe, a city in South Kivu, amid ongoing conflict with Congolese forces. Local media confirmed the takeover occurred on Wednesday, despite a declared unilateral ceasefire that began on Tuesday. M23 previously seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu, leading to heightened violence and humanitarian issues in the region.
Early reports indicated intense fighting between M23 rebels and the Congolese army in Nyabibwe, located strategically between Goma and Bukavu. An official from Kalehe territory confirmed the city’s capture to Actualite.cd. M23 representatives declined to comment immediately when contacted by Anadolu Agency.
In response to the escalating situation, Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner emphasized the need for tangible actions to ensure the ceasefire progresses beyond superficial measures. The World Health Organization reports over 900 casualties in Goma attributed to the recent conflicts, alongside significant losses among peacekeeping forces.
Additionally, President Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi has instructed the commander of the Malawi Defense Forces to initiate preparations for a troop withdrawal from the eastern Congo peacekeeping mission. This move aims to honor the ceasefire declaration and facilitate negotiations for lasting peace in the region, where three Malawian troops lost their lives during recent combat.
The conflict in eastern Congo, particularly in regions like South Kivu and North Kivu, has been marked by decades of violence, driven by complex political and ethnic tensions. The M23 rebel group, emerging from previous insurrections, has regained prominence in recent months, leading to significant humanitarian crises, including mass displacements and high mortality rates. International peacekeeping efforts have been deployed, but the region remains unstable, exacerbated recently by renewed hostilities.
In summary, the situation in eastern Congo remains dire as M23 rebels continue to seize territory despite a declared ceasefire. The violent conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement of civilians. The government’s response includes troop withdrawals from peacekeeping missions, highlighting the urgent need for effective peace negotiations and a sustainable resolution to the ongoing turmoil.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
