M23 Rebels Capture Key Town in Eastern DR Congo, Violating Ceasefire Amid Clashes

The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have seized control of the town of Kalembe in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, marking a significant violation of the ceasefire established in August. Local sources reported the town’s capture following intense clashes between the M23 and the Wazalendo militia, which supports the Congolese army.

The M23 began its push to retake Kalembe around 10:00 am local time, using heavy artillery in what has been described as a brutal assault. "The enemy is using all its artillery to massacre us,” said Wazalendo spokesperson Marcellin Shenkuku, as the militia struggled to hold its ground. Although the situation remains fluid, with conflicting reports over who controls the town, local leader Kabaki Mwanankoyo confirmed that M23 had taken key positions.

On Sunday, M23 initially seized Kalembe but was repelled by pro-Kinshasa forces. However, they have since regained control, prompting strong condemnation from the Angolan government. Angola, which mediated the ceasefire, called the occupation a "flagrant violation" and warned that it threatens efforts to find a lasting solution to the conflict in the region.

Kalembe, a strategic town with a population of 40,000, lies on a critical road that provides access to gold, coltan, and diamond deposits in North Kivu’s Walikale territory. The mineral-rich area has long been a hotspot of internal and cross-border conflicts, with various rebel factions vying for control over its resources for more than three decades.