M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have captured Bukavu, promising to restore security in the city. The takeover raises fears of intensified regional conflict, following their earlier seizure of Goma. While some residents welcomed the rebels, others fled due to violence. Looting of humanitarian supplies has compounded the crisis, although local markets are gradually reopening.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have taken control of Bukavu, the second major city in the region, promising to restore order. This follows the group’s significant territorial gains since late January, with troops swiftly overcoming the local Congolese army. Residents cautiously returned to the streets on Monday, showing mixed responses to the M23’s takeover.
As the M23 continues its advance, many people have fled to Burundi for safety. Some residents welcomed the rebels, claiming the Congolese army had abandoned them. A statement from the rebel alliance asserted their commitment to assist the Bukavu population, emphasizing their efforts to maintain safety and property security amidst the chaos.
The M23’s control of Bukavu further diminishes governmental authority and heightens concerns over escalating regional conflict. Previously, the group captured Goma, North Kivu’s capital, after intense clashes with the army. The UN reported substantial fatalities in these confrontations, emphasizing the serious humanitarian repercussions of the ongoing violence.
Erasto Bahati Musanga, North Kivu’s rebel-appointed governor, announced the reopening of ports in both Bukavu and Goma, which were closed due to earlier fighting. However, the looting of humanitarian supplies occurred amidst the unrest, with the World Food Programme reporting the theft of 7,000 tonnes of food intended for vulnerable families.
Despite the turmoil, economic activities are slowly restarting. Traders are returning to markets, albeit facing a lack of customers. A local merchant expressed the urgency of resuming business to ensure survival, despite the significant losses incurred during the skirmishes. The M23 remains the dominant group among over 100 armed factions vying for control over eastern Congo’s resource-rich territories, with claims of Rwandan troop support still disputed by the Rwandan government.
The recent capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels marks a significant shift in the power dynamics of eastern DRC, raising critical security concerns while prompting local economic recovery efforts. As violence escalates and humanitarian crises deepen, the international community is urged to monitor the situation closely while advocating for adherence to humanitarian law. The ongoing conflict significantly threatens regional stability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
