M23 rebels backed by Rwanda have captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, prompting concerns from the Congolese government. Following their earlier capture of Goma, the militia faced little resistance. Local residents and authorities express alarm over escalating violence and territorial gains, which threaten to worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region.
M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have successfully captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This development follows the militia’s previous capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The DRC government’s communications ministry has confirmed this situation, highlighting its efforts to restore security in the region amidst the advancing rebels.
On Friday, the M23 fighters entered Bukavu, facing minimal resistance as they progressed southward. Local resident Blaise Byamungu expressed frustration over the absence of government authority in the city, questioning the rationale behind the government’s delay in response. “Is the government waiting for them to take over other towns to take action? It’s cowardice,” he lamented.
During the weekend, M23 leadership, represented by Bernard Byamungu, publicly declared their intention to bring change to Bukavu. Addressing a gathering, he promised to rectify the issues left by the previous administration and stated, “We are going to clean up the disorder left over from the old regime.”
M23, among numerous armed factions in the region, claims to defend the rights and safety of Congolese Tutsis and other minorities against threats from Hutu rebel groups. The DRC and international observers have accused Rwanda of providing support to M23, accusations which the Rwandan government refutes. Reports from UN experts suggest that the Rwandan army maintains significant influence over the militia.
In response to the mounting conflict, the Burundian military has allied with Congolese forces to safeguard Bukavu. Consequently, the rebels’ advance signifies a noteworthy territorial gain for M23 since its resurgence in 2022, which could potentially escalate tensions into a broader regional conflict.
Recent clashes around Goma have resulted in significant casualties, with nearly 3,000 individuals reported killed. The ongoing violence has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, displacing around 350,000 people due to the destruction of emergency shelters.
The Congo River Alliance, a coalition including M23, publicly assured residents of Bukavu of their commitment to defend the city, urging the public to maintain control and avoid succumbing to panic. The DRC government has called for calm, advising citizens to remain indoors for their safety amid the escalating situation.
The capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels reflects a significant shift in control within the eastern DRC, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the complexities of regional conflicts influenced by external actors. Government responses remain a point of concern as residents express distress over safety and governance. As the situation develops, the risk of widening hostilities poses serious implications for both local populations and broader regional stability.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
