Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advanced into Bukavu, Congo’s second largest city, facing little resistance from government forces. The conflict, driven by competition for control and ethnic tensions, has displaced millions. The Congolese government held a security meeting while local residents experienced rising fears amidst the instability, calling for action against the rebels, who seek political power.

On Sunday morning, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advanced into Bukavu, the second largest city in eastern Congo, encountering minimal resistance from government forces. Witnesses noted that numerous residents enthusiastically welcomed the rebels, who arrived after a lengthy march from Goma, which they recently took control of. However, parts of Bukavu remained deserted as residents stayed indoors amid the unrest.

M23 rebels, supported by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, are one of numerous armed groups competing for dominance in eastern Congo’s mineral-rich regions. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over 6 million people, marking it as the largest humanitarian crisis globally, with significant ramifications for the civilians affected.

While it remains uncertain if M23 has fully conquered Bukavu—a city of approximately 1.3 million—rebels have established positions in key areas, such as the South Kivu administrative office. Despite their presence, there were no signs of ongoing fighting, and Congolese forces were notably absent across most of the city, raising questions about state authority.

Blaise Byamungu, a local resident, expressed frustration, stating that the city was left unprotected, asserting, “The government is cowardly waiting for them to occupy other towns before taking action.” This sentiment reflects worries about the escalating power dynamics in the region, as analysts note the M23’s shift in focus toward seeking political control.

Reports indicate that many Congolese soldiers escaped Bukavu as panic spread among the civilian population, resulting in looting. President Felix Tshisekedi convened a security meeting in Kinshasa, where officials assert that Bukavu is still under the control of Congolese forces and allied local militias despite the invasion.

Amid rising tensions, Tshisekedi warned of the possibility of regional conflict expansion, stressing the need for support in Bukavu from Burundi troops and South African forces in Goma. Burundi’s president downplayed any retaliatory measures against the current situation, indicating a cautious stance on future involvement in the fighting.

The conflict garnered significant attention at the recent African Union summit, where U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres asserted the necessity of respecting Congo’s sovereignty. Despite calls for a ceasefire and dialogue, there has been a marked reluctance from both African leaders and the international community to take strong action against M23 or its Rwandan backers.

The Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, affirmed its commitment to protecting Bukavu’s inhabitants, urging calm among residents. Lawrence Kanyuka, the spokesperson for the alliance, emphasized the importance of local control and stability during this turbulent period, framing the rebels’ actions as defensive in nature.

This conflict has deep roots in an ethnic struggle, with M23 asserting its role in defending Congolese Tutsis. Rwanda accuses Hutu militias, which fled post-genocide, of persecuting Tutsis in Congo. These tensions persist, as Rwanda claims connections to elements within the Congolese military, which denies these allegations, complicating the geopolitical landscape further.

The incursion of M23 rebels into Bukavu highlights the precarious security situation in eastern Congo, with significant implications for the region’s stability. The response from the Congolese government remains under scrutiny as the conflict escalates, potentially drawing in regional powers. This ongoing humanitarian crisis underscores the urgent need for effective diplomatic resolutions and international attention to restore peace and protect affected civilians.

Original Source: www.clickorlando.com