Hundreds of Congolese police have joined the M23 rebels in Bukavu, amid unrest following the withdrawal of Congolese forces. The United Nations has urged the group to cease hostilities, but local residents have noted the disruptions caused by the M23’s presence. The ongoing conflict raises concerns over regional stability and governance in the contested areas of eastern DRC.
In Bukavu, large groups of Congolese police switched allegiance to the M23 rebel group on Saturday. They participated in a display of loyalty, singing and clapping as they prepared for retraining under the rebels. The M23 signals its intent to govern after capturing the city, following a week of unrest and looting due to the withdrawal of Congolese forces without confrontation.
The M23’s territorial gains in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have raised concerns internationally, prompting a unanimous demand from the United Nations Security Council for a cessation of hostilities and an end to their advance. However, in Bukavu, the police, donned in new uniforms, were told to prepare for training to support the rebel group despite the UN’s calls.
Reports indicate around 1,800 police officers have defected to the M23, with an additional 500 anticipated to follow suit. Jackson Kamba, a police commander, expressed hopes for their return in good spirits to assist in “liberating” their country. Meanwhile, the Congolese government remains silent on these developments.
Residents of Bukavu are expressing their concerns, noting that the presence of the M23 has disrupted daily life. Josue Kayeye, a local, mentioned that while some activities have resumed, the area remains paralyzed. He emphasized that nothing gained through force should be celebrated.
The Congolese military faces challenges on multiple fronts, with reports of Tutsi militia captures in South Kivu and the death of a militia leader by a Congolese drone strike. There is an ongoing discussion among East African defense chiefs regarding the escalating conflict, highlighting a lack of clarity in the situation.
The M23, an ethnic Tutsi-led group, is one of many that have emerged in Congo’s history. It and Rwanda deny accusations from the Congolese government claiming they are proxies working to exploit the region’s mineral resources.
The situation in eastern DRC is escalating as the M23 rebels continue to consolidate power following their advancement into Bukavu, leading to significant defections from the Congolese police. The international community has raised alarms about potential wider conflict as local unrest grows. While the M23 aims to establish governance, skepticism and disruption in civilian life persist, prompting calls for clarity and resolution in the conflict.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
