M23 rebels reoccupy localities in the North Kivu province of the DRC
In a statement released by Congolese forces this Wednesday, it was announced that the M23 rebels have reoccupied certain localities in the territories of Masisi and Nyiragongo, located in the province of North Kivu, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The localities in question, which had been abandoned by the rebellion, include the hills of Kibarizo, Kabalekasha, Kirumbu Bukombo, Rugogwe, Busumba and Burungu in Masisi, as well as the hill of Ruhunda in Kibumba in Nyiragongo territory.
This reoccupation comes after Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi’s speech at the United Nations General Assembly, where he clearly ruled out any dialogue with the M23. It seems that the rebels, supported by the Rwandan government, took this declaration as a provocation and decided to reinvest these villages.
The Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) consider this reoccupation as a provocation and are launching an appeal to the international community. They say they are ready to prepare for all eventualities and to defend the reoccupied localities.
This new situation highlights the ongoing instability in the eastern region of the DRC and raises concerns about the security of local populations. The Congolese authorities will have to take measures to restore calm and guarantee the safety of the inhabitants of these localities.
It is essential that the international community remains attentive to this situation and provides support to the DRC to face this reoccupation and to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in the east of the country. The stability of the region is crucial for the socio-economic development of the DRC and to ensure the security and well-being of its population.
In conclusion, the reoccupation by the M23 rebels of certain localities in the province of North Kivu is a source of major concern. It is imperative that the Congolese authorities and the international community work together to restore stability and security in the region, and to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict.