Stalemate in Uvira: M23 Rebels Challenge Withdrawal Claims

Despite promises to retreat from Uvira, the M23 rebels have yet to leave the town according to local reports. Calls for a neutral force's protection and ongoing conflicts challenge peace mediation efforts between the rebels and Congolese government, amidst claims of Rwandan involvement, which Rwanda denies.

The tension escalates in Uvira as M23 rebels remain in place, despite earlier claims of withdrawal. Locals report rebels still visible, challenging assertions made by M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma about their intentions to vacate the town.

Efforts for peace mediation, backed by U.S. and Qatar, face hurdles with the failure of M23's promised retreat. The town's hold by M23, claimed as a protective measure, contradicts the withdrawal announcement intended to support diplomatic negotiations.

Congolese officials view the rebels' promises as a diversion and accuse Rwanda of backing M23—claims repeatedly denied by the Rwandan government. Daily conflicts continue to embroil the troubled region, complicating the path to peace.

(With inputs from agencies.)