M23 rebels, supported by Rwandan troops, are advancing towards Bukavu, eastern Congo, leading to civilian panic and significant displacements. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and the capture of key locations such as Kavumu airport, while the Congolese military struggles with coordination issues. International leaders are set to discuss the crisis at the African Union summit amidst ongoing violence.
Residents and businesses in Bukavu, eastern Congo’s second-largest city, experienced a tense morning, marked by gunfire from advancing Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Families stayed indoors and shops remained closed as the M23 fighters encroached on Bukavu, approximately 63 miles south of Goma, which the rebels previously captured.
This escalation poses a significant challenge to the Congolese government as M23, supported by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, expands its control over territory rich in minerals. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 2,000 people and left hundreds of thousands displaced, according to the U.N. and local authorities.
The M23 rebels reportedly seized control of Kavumu airport near Bukavu, further consolidating their hold on strategic locations. The U.N. has expressed concern for 350,000 internally displaced individuals left without shelter due to the recent clashes with government forces. The status of the airport remains uncertain amidst military tensions.
Official responses have been scarce, but the Congolese government accused the rebels of breaching ceasefire agreements. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated that their operations aim to “eliminate the threat at the source” concerning the airport and its surrounding areas.
Local civil society leaders reported a concerning trend of soldiers abandoning their posts, prompting fears of chaos, similar to the scenario preceding Goma’s capture last month. Despite having a significant military presence, the Congolese forces are hindered by poor training and reports of corruption.
International discussions regarding the conflict are set to take place at the African Union summit in Ethiopia. With President Félix Tshisekedi requesting international assistance, the situation remains dire, especially after the M23 unilaterally dismissed the government’s ceasefire declaration.
Amidst the uncertainty, residents in Bukavu are fleeing to neighboring towns and securing supplies due to fear of increased violence. The U.N. refugee agency highlighted the destruction of 70,000 emergency shelters, exacerbating the plight of the displaced.
Chirimwami Alexis, a local resident, expressed his fears as he witnessed soldiers retreating towards Bukavu. He remarked, “The fear we have is people moving without any preparation or food. We are running away just because of this situation.”
The situation in eastern Congo, particularly in Bukavu, remains precarious as M23 rebels advance, aided by Rwandan troops, resulting in rising casualties and displacements. The Congolese military faces challenges in maintaining order, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Ongoing international discussions may provide a pathway to potential solutions, but immediate dangers persist as residents flee in fear of further violence.
Original Source: www.wboc.com
