M23 rebels captured Bukavu, DRC’s second-largest city, amid ongoing conflicts and accusations of Rwandan support. The DRC government is monitoring the situation and has urged residents to remain indoors. The humanitarian crisis worsens with thousands displaced, and M23 plans to establish order in Bukavu. This territorial expansion raises concerns of broader regional conflict.
M23 rebels have overtaken Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as confirmed by the Congolese government. This assault follows the militia’s recent capture of Goma. The DRC communications ministry announced it is closely observing the situation, which includes the entry of the Rwandan army and allied forces, while striving to regain order and territorial integrity.
Following their advance, M23 fighters had little opposition as they entered Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. A resident expressed frustration at the perceived abandonment by local authorities, questioning whether the government would act only when other towns are threatened. The sentiment of neglect was palpable, demonstrating the residents’ desperation for security.
Over the weekend, M23’s leadership reiterated their commitment to altering the status quo. Bernard Byamungu, a group leader, declared their intent to eliminate the chaos left by previous governance, urging a crowd that they would transform the region previously likened to a “jungle.” The rebels’ outreach aims to reinforce their presence and legitimacy among local populations.
M23 is one of over 100 armed groups in the eastern DRC, claiming to protect the interests of the Congolese Tutsi and other minorities against threats from Hutu rebels. Allegations against Rwanda for supporting M23 have been persistent, although the Rwandan government refutes such claims. UN investigations suggest that Rwandan forces maintain substantial control over M23’s activities.
The Burundian army was assisting the Congolese army in safeguarding Bukavu, making the capture of this city a significant territorial gain for M23 since its resurgence in 2022. This escalation in territorial control raises concerns about a potential regional conflict, especially following widespread violence in Goma that resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities.
Humanitarian conditions have worsened due to the ongoing fighting, with recent conflicts destroying 70,000 emergency shelters around Goma and Minova. This crisis has left approximately 350,000 internally displaced individuals vulnerable, as reported by the UN. The situation underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the region.
The Congo River Alliance, a coalition that includes M23, announced its commitment to protecting Bukavu’s inhabitants, urging residents to maintain calm and resist panic. Their spokesperson emphasized the importance of local agency amid the turmoil. Concurrently, the DRC government has advised the populace to stay indoors to minimize exposure to conflict-related dangers.
The M23 militia’s capture of Bukavu marks a crucial development in the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC, illustrating the deepening humanitarian crisis and regional instability. With accusations against Rwanda for support of M23, the situation remains precarious. As this conflict escalates, the government’s efforts to restore order and protect civilians face significant challenges.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
