M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized Bukavu, marking their second major city takeover in the DRC. This move follows the earlier seizure of Kavumu airport and has prompted government acknowledgment of their occupation. The situation contributes to a significant humanitarian crisis with over six million displaced and nearly 3,000 deaths reported by the UN.
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have taken control of their second significant city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with their coalition, the Congo River Alliance, declaring their aim to aid Bukavu’s population in addressing security issues left by the previous regime. M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, announced their efforts to restore order and security for residents, claiming broad community support.
Bernard Maheshe Byamungu, another M23 official sanctioned by the UN for human rights abuses, described the living conditions in Bukavu as chaotic and stated their goal to eliminate disorder resulting from the former regime. In a rare acknowledgment, the Congolese government confirmed that Bukavu had been occupied and is striving to reclaim stability in the region.
According to South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi, Congolese troops have retreated to avert combat in heavily populated areas, stating that he has evacuated safely from his office and residence. This military setback followed M23’s earlier seizure of Kavumu airport, a vital site for the Congolese army operation in the South Kivu province.
A civil society representative stated the situation in Bukavu is dire, with the city effectively abandoned by government authorities. Local resident Blaise Byamungu criticized the government for its passive response, suggesting that it allows further rebel advancements due to fear.
The M23, which stands for March 23 Movement, has been extending its control since capturing Goma in January. Despite declaring a ceasefire, Kanyuka asserted there was no intention to conquer more cities, a claim viewed skeptically given their recent actions.
The ongoing conflict has caused an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, displacing over six million people. Recent UN reports noted nearly 3,000 fatalities attributed to the violence. M23’s strength is supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, in stark contrast to their more restrained presence during the 2012 Goma siege.
Rwanda’s government denies its involvement with M23, framing the unrest as efforts to protect ethnic Tutsis from Hutu factions, a reference to historical tensions rooted in the Rwandan genocide of 1994, which resulted in the deaths of around 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus.
M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have occupied Bukavu, prompting the Congolese government to acknowledge the situation and seek to restore order. With tensions flaring, the M23’s actions continue to escalate the humanitarian crisis in the region, challenging both local and international responses. The history of ethnic conflict greatly influences the dynamics of this situation, calling for careful attention to the humanitarian impact of the ongoing violence.
Original Source: news.sky.com
