M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu in Escalating Conflict in DR Congo

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the second-largest city in the DRC, following their recent capture of Goma. Residents have reacted with a mixture of fear and reluctant support due to a lack of authority in the city. The Congolese government has appealed for safety while condemning Rwanda’s actions, as humanitarian concerns grow regarding the escalating conflict.

The city of Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest urban area, has succumbed to the advances of Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, who have seized control of the regional governor’s office. Residents observed in shock as the armed group marched through the city center with little resistance. This incident marks their second successful takeover following Goma, raising alarm bells about stability in this mineral-rich region.

The Congolese government has acknowledged the occupation, urging citizens to remain indoors to avoid encounters with the rebels. Humanitarian organizations have expressed concern that the escalation could lead to a broader conflict, as hundreds of thousands have already fled their homes due to ongoing violence.

A Bukavu resident, wishing to remain anonymous for safety reasons, described the chaos unfolding in the city, noting, “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting.” Reports indicate that the M23 faction was welcomed by locals, prompting questions regarding the motivations behind such reactions.

After capturing Bukavu’s main airport located 30 kilometers north, the M23 fighters advanced towards the city, leading to a vacuum of authority. Congolese troops reportedly withdrew to prevent urban warfare, resulting in disarray, including a noted prison escape and widespread looting of food supplies.

The fall of Bukavu, a city host to around two million residents and crucial for local mineral trade, signifies a significant territorial gain for the M23 since the insurgency’s resurgence in late 2021, posing a serious challenge to the government of President Félix Tshisekedi. Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya remarked that Rwanda was infringing upon DR Congo’s sovereignty, accusing it of engaging in human rights violations.

Accusations have been leveled against Rwanda by the Congolese administration, which maintains that the neighboring country seeks to exploit its resources amid the unrest. In contrast, President Kagame has rejected claims of Rwandan troops’ presence and attributed his country’s priorities to national security concerns.

Tensions remain high as the Tutsi-led M23 militia positioned themselves in Bukavu, with commander Bernard Byamungu encouraging government forces to surrender. The African Union reiterated calls for disarmament, with its peace and security commissioner expressing fears over potential regional warfare.

The situation in Bukavu illustrates a significant escalation of conflict involving Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, revealing vulnerabilities in the security framework of the Democratic Republic of Congo. With both the Congolese government and Rwanda exchanging accusations, the current dynamics could lead to larger regional implications. Clarifying truths and fostering cooperation is crucial for the future stability of the region.

Original Source: www.bbc.com