M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, following their capture of Goma, with claims of Rwandan support. The rebels’ presence has caused chaos, with reports of looting and civilian panic turning to support for the group. The situation is a focal point at the AU summit, emphasizing the need for peace and dialogue amid a humanitarian crisis displacing millions.
M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwandan forces, have entered Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo’s second-largest city, as confirmed by the governor of South Kivu province, Jean-Jacques Purusi. This rapid advancement follows their capture of Goma in late January, marking a significant territorial expansion for the rebels since their resurgence in 2022. According to the Congolese government, while Rwandan troops are accompanying the M23, it remains unclear if they have taken full control of Bukavu.
Reports from local officials, security sources, and witnesses confirm the M23’s presence in Bukavu, with spokesperson Willy Ngoma stating, “We are there.” The situation escalated chaos in the city, leading to lootings and civilians fleeing, though some residents later expressed support for the rebels, chanting their desire for change. Concurrently, the M23 captured Kavumu Airport with minimal resistance, which was a crucial military barrier before entering Bukavu.
The ongoing conflict is a central topic at the African Union (AU) summit in Ethiopia, where UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the necessity of avoiding further regional escalation and preserving DRC’s territorial integrity. A UK Foreign Office spokesperson referred to the M23 incursion as “a violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” urging for peace dialogues facilitated by Africa. Despite Rwanda’s denial of military support claims, prior UN reports suggest a significant Rwandan military presence aiding the M23.
The M23 continues to be a prominent faction among over 100 armed groups contesting control over the mineral-rich eastern DRC, contributing to a humanitarian crisis that has displaced over six million people. Since the M23’s advance into Goma, approximately 350,000 individuals have found themselves homeless, underpinning the urgent need for reconciliation and stability in the region.
The entry of M23 rebels into Bukavu signifies a troubling escalation in eastern DRC’s ongoing conflict. This development not only threatens local stability but also raises concerns regarding regional sovereignty, with international calls for dialogue and resolution growing louder. The humanitarian crisis stemming from the unrest highlights the urgent need for effective intervention.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
