M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have entered Bukavu, DRC’s second largest city, following a swift offensive after capturing Goma. The Congolese military retreated to avoid urban conflict as chaos ensued, with reports of looting and civilian deaths. Despite fears, some locals supported the M23, seeing potential for change. The UK condemned the actions as violations of DRC’s sovereignty, while UN officials called for avoiding regional escalation.
The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized control of Bukavu, the second largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed their presence following a swift military advance, stating that local Congolese troops retreated to prevent urban combat. This marks a significant territorial gain for the rebels, having previously captured Goma in late January, escalating their control since the rebellion’s inception in 2022.
The DRC government acknowledged that M23 forces entered Bukavu but indicated that not the entire city was under their control. They accused Rwanda of orchestrating crimes and violations against human rights in the DRC. Local accounts of sightings and communications from M23 representatives confirmed their active presence in the city, further asserting their operational authority amidst ongoing tensions.
Reports of chaos characterized the city, with numerous incidents of looting and a mass exodus of civilians, although a semblance of calm has since emerged. Witnesses recounted tragic violence, including the death of civilians during conflicts, prompting fears among residents. Despite initial panic, some citizens expressed support for the M23, seeing them as a catalyst for change in the troubled region.
The capture of Kavumu Airport, which serves Bukavu, occurred with minimal resistance, allowing the rebels to advance toward the city effectively. This development coincides with ongoing discussions at an African Union summit in Ethiopia, focusing on resolving the conflict in the DRC and concerns over regional stability.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the necessity of preserving DRC’s territorial integrity and avoiding further escalation. The UK foreign office condemned the situation as a violation of DRC sovereignty, calling for an immediate halt to hostilities and withdrawal of foreign troops. Critics have voiced frustration with the slow response from the African Union regarding the escalating conflict.
While Rwanda denies providing military assistance to M23, external reports suggest otherwise, indicating a troop presence of approximately 4,000 soldiers. The M23 is among over 100 armed groups in eastern DRC vying for control over its mineral-rich resources, significantly contributing to a humanitarian crisis that has displaced more than six million people in the region.
In summary, the M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains with their entry into Bukavu, escalating the already severe humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC. Despite the Congolese government’s attempts to mitigate the situation, public sentiment remains divided, with some residents welcoming the rebels. The ongoing discussions at the African Union highlight the critical need for diplomatic solutions amidst international calls for the preservation of DRC’s sovereignty and security.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
