M23 fighters, alongside Rwandan troops, have taken control of Bukavu, heightening concerns over the breakup of the DRC. The international community is calling for Rwanda to withdraw its support for M23 amid fears of a regional conflict, as local residents express both support and trepidation over the ongoing violence.
On Sunday, M23 fighters, with support from Rwandan troops, gained control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, exacerbating fears of a potential breakup of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The fighters were welcomed by some residents as they entered the outskirts of the city, which has a population of one million and had minimal defense from Congolese armed forces. With this acquisition, M23 now dominates Lake Kivu after capturing Goma in January.
International pressure has intensified on Rwanda to cease its military assistance to M23, which the Rwandan government denies. As M23 fighters advanced, local residents expressed support, with one Bukavu resident declaring, “We have welcomed our liberators, it’s an immense joy that floods my heart.” Some individuals even called for the group to progress towards Kinshasa, the DRC’s capital.
In the aftermath of the Congolese army’s retreat from Bukavu, significant looting occurred, with civilians seizing weapons left behind. Many people took shelter in their homes amid unrest, while M23 encouraged locals to establish vigilance committees for security. Gunfire persisted, particularly around military installations as M23 continued to pursue remaining soldiers and civilians participating in the looting.
The DRC government is closely monitoring the situation in Bukavu, accusing Rwanda of potential occupation and looting efforts in the area. Concerns have risen that the M23 offensive could lead to a wider regional conflict, prompting calls for de-escalation and a ceasefire from the international community. Bankole Adeoye from the African Union expressed that avoiding the balkanization of eastern DRC is critical.
In support of maintaining territorial integrity, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the need to avert a regional war during the AU summit’s opening. The French foreign ministry has urged for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan soldiers, while British officials warning about the risk of escalating tensions due to Rwandan-backed offensives. The DRC alleges that around 4,000 Rwandan troops are active in the region, amid ongoing conflict with M23, which has spanned over three years.
The situation in eastern DRC remains precarious as M23 has secured Bukavu, illustrating the heightened challenges faced by the Congolese government. The international community is increasingly alarmed by the potential for regional conflict and the implications of foreign military involvement. Diplomatic efforts are crucial to restoring stability and preventing further escalation in the area.
Original Source: www.bryantimes.com
