In a significant development, the M23 rebel group has announced its withdrawal from the town of Walikale in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This move is seen as a support for peace efforts in the region.
The rebels had captured Walikale earlier this week, but now claim to be repositioning their forces in line with a unilateral ceasefire declared in February.
The government has welcomed the announcement, but remains cautious, hoping it will translate into concrete action.
The conflict in eastern Congo has escalated since December, with the M23 rebels seizing key towns and displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians.
The rebels are demanding direct talks with the government, which has been resisting their advances.
The situation remains tense, with reports of airstrikes by Congolese forces near Walikale’s airport.
The M23 rebels have also been accused of advancing towards another town in the area, despite their announced withdrawal.
The international community is watching the situation closely, with the United Nations and Western governments calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23 rebels, has denied any involvement.
