
Faith Nyasuguta
In a major victory for the Congolese army, significant military advancements have been made in the ongoing battle against the M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Over the weekend, the military successfully drove the M23 forces out of South Kivu, reclaiming several strategic towns in both North and South Kivu provinces.
Guillaume Ndjike Kaiko, a spokesperson for the Congolese army, confirmed the success of the operation, assuring the public that key territories previously controlled by the rebels were now back under the government’s control. He also reiterated the army’s position on the ongoing conflict, stating that while a ceasefire is being observed, the Congolese forces reserve the right to defend their territory and citizens against attacks, particularly from external forces.

“The ceasefire is in effect, but if our positions or displaced people are targeted, we have the right to react,” Kaiko remarked, highlighting the gravity of the situation. His statement came amidst increasing violence, as the M23 rebels, primarily composed of Tutsi fighters, have been expanding their control in the region.
The M23 group, named after a 2009 peace agreement that they claim was not honored by the Congolese government, briefly took control of Goma in 2012. After a period of inactivity, the group resurfaced in late 2021, launching an aggressive campaign to seize more territory in eastern Congo. The United Nations has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, a charge Rwanda has repeatedly denied, insisting that it only offers humanitarian aid and not military support.
Tensions have escalated, with Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame calling for peace talks between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels, advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. However, the situation remains volatile, with the UN alleging that Rwandan soldiers have been involved in direct combat alongside M23 forces, a claim Rwanda disputes.

As the violence continues, the international community remains deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict. Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced by the fighting, leaving many in dire need of assistance. The DRC government has vowed to continue defending its sovereignty and ensuring the protection of its people against any external threats.
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