Short-lived ceasefire shattered in Congo
Violence continues in the Democratic Republic of Congo
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Monday, 17, Nov 2008 12:34
Vicious fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo last night ended a ceasefire almost as soon as it had begun.
Rebel forces pushed government troops out of Riwindi, around 75 miles north-east of provincial capital Goma, according to reports.
The fighting took place despite rebel general Laurent Nkunda yesterday underlining his commitment to an existing ceasefire.
"The government forces are stuck at Vitshumbi, they have no choice but to run away across the lake or through the forest," a spokesman for Gen Nkunda's forces told the AFP news agency.
His National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP) has been engaged in renewed conflict with the Congolese army since September.
But the latter's decision not to contest Goma left only UN peacekeepers standing between the rebels and the city – and caused an estimated 250,000 people to flee it.
The ensuing humanitarian crisis continues to concern aid agencies as international envoys struggle to bring an end to the conflict.
The rebels appear keen on a ceasefire, but on their terms only.
"We are going to advance on Vitshumbi and silence the government forces," the spokesperson added.
"We are going to impose a ceasefire on them."