M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, eastern DRC, facing little resistance from government forces. This marks a major turn in their insurgency, which gained momentum in 2022. Local residents reported M23’s rapid movement through the city amid fears of a broader regional war, fueled by historical tensions and significant humanitarian challenges.
M23 rebels, backed by Rwandan forces, began advancing into the center of Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on Sunday. This movement followed their capture of Goma earlier in the year, and if confirmed, represents a significant escalation in the group’s insurgency, which reignited in 2022. Witnesses reported minimal resistance from Congolese government troops as the rebels entered central Bukavu.
Before the advance, Congolese officials asserted that the provincial capital remained under control of government forces. However, residents indicated that by early Sunday, M23 had established a presence in central areas of Bukavu. M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma confirmed their position in the city, showcasing images of rebel fighters in Independence Square via social media.
The swift advance of the M23 since the beginning of the year, alongside troops from neighboring countries, has heightened concerns of a broader regional conflict stemming from historical tensions linked to power dynamics, identity, and resource disputes originating from the 1990s Rwandan genocide. The DRC, rich in minerals such as tantalum and cobalt, is a focal point in the critical supply chain for electric vehicles and mobile technology.
Residents observed M23 forces moving through Bukavu with little resistance, aside from sporadic gunfire from Camp Saio. Some locals greeted the rebels with approval, as captured in verified videos of M23 fighters engaging with civilians. The insurgents encouraged citizens to return home as military operations continued, indicating a tactical approach to managing crowds and securing the area.
In light of the M23’s approach, Congolese army personnel reportedly began withdrawing from Bukavu to avoid violent confrontations akin to those witnessed in Goma, where significant casualties were recorded. The departure of troops has contributed to a power vacuum, resulting in looting and prisoner escapes.
The arrival of M23 has evoked mixed feelings among Bukavu residents, with some hopeful for reestablished order. However, the history of violence from previous conflicts raises fears of a recurrence similar to those from 1996 to 2003, which claimed millions of lives. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with approximately 350,000 people displaced, as reported by the U.N. refugee agency.
The M23 rebels’ advance into Bukavu reflects a significant escalatory moment in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, expanding fears of a broader regional war. The situation is complicated by historical tensions, rich mineral resources, and the precarious humanitarian condition affecting hundreds of thousands. As the local population grapples with uncertainty, the implications of M23’s presence will require careful monitoring from the international community.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
