M23 Rebels Enter Bukavu: A Significant Escalation in DR Congo Conflict

M23 rebels have rapidly advanced into Bukavu, the DRC’s second largest city, amid reports of Rwandan troop involvement. Congolese forces withdrew to prevent urban combat, resulting in significant territorial expansion for the rebels. The unfolding crisis has alarmed international observers and raised concerns regarding sovereignty and the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

The M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, the second largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as confirmed by South Kivu province’s governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi. This development occurred as Congolese troops retreated to avoid urban conflict, marking a significant territorial gain for the rebels since their latest uprising began in 2022. After taking Goma, the M23 has rapidly advanced into Bukavu, raising concerns among local and international observers.

The Congolese government acknowledged the presence of the M23 within Bukavu, asserting the involvement of Rwandan troops alongside them. However, officials clarified that the entirety of the city is not under the M23’s control. The government denounced Rwanda for pursuing a plan to occupy and exploit DRC’s resources, alleging ongoing human rights violations. Local witnesses and officials confirmed sightings of the rebels amidst the city, as M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma stated, “We are there.”

An eyewitness reported a moment of chaos, where residents fled and significant looting occurred, including the theft of supplies from a World Food Programme depot. Amid the turmoil, however, some residents reportedly expressed support for the M23, with cheers and chants of needing change echoing in the streets. The fall of Bukavu, along with the capture of nearby Kavumu Airport, signals a substantial shift in control for the M23, who faced little resistance on their advance.

These developments coincide with an African Union summit in Ethiopia, where international leaders, including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasized the need to maintain the DRC’s territorial integrity. A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office condemned the rebel incursion as a breach of DRC’s sovereignty, urging an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of foreign troops. The ongoing conflict, exacerbated by Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23, has displaced millions, fueling the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.

Rwanda has denied allegations of military support for the M23, citing threats from hardline extremist groups in the DRC, yet many reports suggest significant Rwandan military involvement with the rebels. The M23 is one of over one hundred armed groups vying for influence in the mineral-rich eastern DRC, contributing to the ongoing instability and humanitarian challenges in the region, with over six million people affected.

In summary, the entry of M23 rebels into Bukavu symbolizes a critical escalation in the conflict in the eastern DRC. The presence of Rwandan troops alongside them raises serious concerns regarding sovereignty and regional stability. International calls for a ceasefire and dialogue highlight the urgent need for an effective resolution to the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by this violent conflict.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com