The Democratic Republic of Congo’s army has accused the M23 rebel group of failing to honor its commitment to withdraw from the eastern town of Walikale, instead reinforcing its positions and launching fresh attacks.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) alleged that M23 fighters, despite their previous declaration of redeployment, were bolstering their positions with additional men and equipment. The army also claimed that M23 had attacked FARDC positions in Walikale and South Kivu province, further escalating tensions in the conflict-ridden region.
A senior M23 member, speaking anonymously to AFP, countered the army’s claims, stating that the military had attacked the group’s positions on Thursday. Neither side’s allegations could be independently verified.
The M23, which resurfaced in 2021 after being dormant for years, announced on Saturday that it was repositioning its forces away from Walikale to create conditions conducive to peace and political dialogue. However, residents in the area have reported that M23 fighters remain in the town, despite a generally calm situation.
Walikale, a mining hub, fell to M23 last Wednesday, marking the group’s furthest westward advance since its emergence in 2012. The rebel group has seized vast areas of North and South Kivu provinces over the past three years, with its rapid offensives earlier this year capturing the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu.
The DRC government continues to accuse Rwanda of backing M23, alleging that Kigali supports the rebels to control the region’s valuable mineral wealth and fertile farmland. While Rwanda denies providing military aid to M23, a UN report has stated that Rwanda maintains approximately 4,000 troops in eastern DRC to assist the rebel group.
Despite multiple ceasefires and peace negotiations, the conflict persists. A planned meeting between the Congolese government and M23 in Luanda, Angola, was abruptly canceled last week. On the same day, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met in Doha under Qatari mediation, reaffirming their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the situation on the ground remains precarious, with both sides accusing each other of violating peace agreements. The uncertainty surrounding M23’s movements and intentions raises concerns about the prospects of lasting peace in eastern DR Congo.
