M23 Rebels Strengthen Control Over Bukavu Amid Ongoing Conflict in DRC

M23 rebels captured Bukavu, a major city in eastern DRC, after defeating local forces. The conflict has led to widespread displacement and humanitarian challenges. As locals grapple with the changes, protests in Goma demand the withdrawal of foreign troops and express dissatisfaction with President Tshisekedi.

On Monday, M23 rebels solidified their control over Bukavu, the second major city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), one day after it was captured. The city, home to approximately 1.3 million residents, fell into the hands of the insurgents following the retreat of Congolese forces. Previously, M23 had seized Goma, another significant city in eastern DRC, in late January.

The M23 group is the most notable among numerous armed factions competing for dominance in eastern Congo, an area rich in vital mineral resources. United Nations experts claim that M23 is bolstered by around 4,000 Rwandan troops. The prolonged conflict has displaced over six million individuals, resulting in the largest humanitarian crisis globally.

As the rebels entered Bukavu, the streets were chaotic, with residents fleeing the city and looters taking advantage of the instability. A heavy silence soon enveloped the city as locals awaited the arrival of the M23 forces apprehensively. On Monday morning, residents cautiously re-emerged while the rebels monitored key intersections.

“People are still scared to go out because of the insecurity so it is not business as usual yet,” stated David Balezi, a local shopkeeper. Following the rebel takeover, Bukavu’s border with Rwanda was closed, leading to the shutdown of most shops. Traffic, however, began to gradually increase.

“Now we thank God that the situation is OK, even if we do not know what is coming. Whatever happens, we will live with it,” remarked David Munyaga, a Bukavu resident. In a development on Monday, Erasto Bahati Musanga, the newly appointed rebel governor of North Kivu province, announced that both Goma and Bukavu’s ports would reopen on Tuesday, as navigation on Lake Kivu had been suspended since the onset of the M23 offensive in Goma.

In Goma, rebel-controlled areas witnessed widespread protests where demonstrators called for the withdrawal of the United Nations peacekeeping force, known as MONUSCO, as well as the departure of troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Protesters mounted a sit-in outside MONUSCO’s headquarters, demanding the resignation of DRC’s President Felix Tshisekedi.

“The war does not end in Congo, why? They have nothing to do here, they should leave,” proclaimed Bauma Sukali, a protester. Another demonstrator, Fiston Nsabimana, emphasized, “Tshisekedi is not able to ensure peace. Let him leave power.”

The M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the second major city in eastern DRC, following their earlier seizure of Goma. Their presence and the backing of Rwandan troops exacerbate an ongoing humanitarian crisis, displacing millions. As residents adjust to this new reality with trepidation, protests in Goma reflect growing discontent with the current administration and the international peacekeeping presence.

Original Source: www.voanews.com