M23 is actively recruiting in Bukavu following a terrorist attack that killed 13. Rebel leaders are encouraging youth to join the fight against poor leadership. The group has integrated over 2,100 police and soldiers, stressing transparency in recruitment. They accuse Burundi of involvement in recent violence, amidst ongoing conflict involving various military coalitions.
The M23 rebel group continues its extensive recruitment efforts in Bukavu, according to a statement from spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka on February 28. This follows a terrorist attack at a rebel rally in Bukavu that resulted in 13 fatalities and over 70 injuries. Kanyuka emphasized their recruitment process is transparent, as recruits are adults volunteering to join the cause against what they describe as poor leadership.
A video posted by Kanyuka depicts a large gathering at Bukavu’s Place de l’Indépendance, led by rebel leader Corneille Nangaa. The footage shows many youths responding to a call from rebel commander General Bernard Byamungu to enlist for the liberation movement against the existing regime. There was significant enthusiasm among the attendees, leading to a rush for registration.
The M23 has also been bolstering its ranks with surrendered Congolese government troops, incorporating over 2,100 police officers and 890 soldiers on February 22 alone. This reinforcement comes in the wake of prior successful recruitments following the capture of Goma in late January. This integration is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen their operations in the region.
In the aftermath of the Bukavu terrorist attack, senior M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa accused Burundi of orchestrating the violence, noting that the explosives utilized were likely sourced from the Burundian military. This accusation is particularly pressing given that the Congolese government is allied with over 10,000 Burundian troops in their campaign against M23.
Analysis reveals that the Congolese army coalition includes not only Burundian forces but also local militias and foreign mercenaries, all contributing to the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo. M23 asserts its commitment to address fundamental governance issues and protecting basic human rights while fighting against existing abuses.
An extraordinary meeting of the East African Community and Southern African Development Community leaders called for an immediate halt to hostilities in DR Congo. Yet, despite these diplomatic efforts, violence persists, leading to growing support for the rebels among local populations who feel abandoned amid rising insecurity.
The M23 rebel group’s significant recruitment drive in Bukavu highlights the ongoing instability in the region, exacerbated by a recent terrorist attack and accusations against neighboring Burundi. The incorporation of surrendered Congolese troops suggests a shifting dynamic within the conflict, as M23 aims to position itself as a legitimate alternative. Amid international calls for dialogue, local support for M23 appears to be growing in response to the Congolese army’s challenges against violence and insecurity.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
