M23 Rebels Vow to Ensure Security Following Bukavu Seizure

The M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, pledging to restore security in the city amidst fears of a broader regional conflict. Many residents have returned, but the aftermath includes significant looting and humanitarian needs. Economic activities are restarting slowly, but challenges abound for local inhabitants, with the ongoing support of Rwandan troops raising alarms internationally.

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have vowed to enhance security in Bukavu, the second significant city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to fall under their control since last month. Following the M23’s takeover, which faced minimal resistance from the beleaguered Congolese army, residents of Bukavu cautiously returned to the streets, signaling a fragile normalization in the city.

In a recent statement, the M23 coalition declared its commitment to support the local population, whom they claim were abandoned by the Congolese military. They asserted, “Our forces have been working to restore the security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population.”

The M23 movement, also referred to as the March 23 Movement, has rapidly expanded its control in eastern DRC since re-emerging in late 2021. With the capture of Bukavu, home to approximately 1.3 million people, the M23’s advances have further undermined the authority of the central government in Kinshasa and intensified concerns regarding a potential regional conflict.

Following their takeover of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, fighting with the Congolese army has resulted in significant casualties. Erasto Bahati Musanga, the governor appointed by the rebels, announced the reopening of ports in Bukavu and Goma, which had been previously closed due to military actions.

Although Bukavu avoided significant violence, the aftermath saw streets cluttered with debris from looting events where humanitarian warehouses and local businesses were targeted. Reports indicate that looters made away with around 7,000 tonnes of essential food supplies intended for at-risk families, exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Pascal Zulu, a local shop owner, expressed despair over his losses, highlighting the broader economic repercussions faced by residents. “The thugs arrived, they took everything, and nothing remains. I’m really upset. I do not know how I am going to repay the money I borrowed,” he lamented.

Despite the initial chaos, economic activities have slowly recommenced in Bukavu, with some traders returning to markets, albeit facing minimal customer turnout. “We are taking advantage of this calm to restart our commercial activities; otherwise, how will we live?” asserted Maman Nyabadeu, a local vendor.

As one of over 100 armed factions involved in eastern Congo’s ongoing turmoil, the M23 rebels receive backing from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. However, the Rwandan government denies allegations of direct support, a claim made by the DRC, the United Nations, and various Western nations.

The recent seizure of Bukavu by M23 rebels underscores the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, raising alarms over regional stability. While the M23 promises to restore security and offers support to the local populace, the aftermath of their takeover has left a path of destruction and heightened humanitarian needs. Economic activities are beginning to resume, but many residents face extreme challenges due to losses from looting and ongoing instability. The international community remains watchful as tensions persist and the humanitarian crisis deepens.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com