M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu Amid Concerns of Regional Instability
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city. This incident follows the fall of Goma and has prompted warnings from international bodies about escalating violence and regional instability. The Congolese government has urged residents to stay indoors and accused Rwanda of undermining its territorial integrity. The local population has expressed fear amid ongoing violence and looting.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have successfully seized control over Bukavu, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city, also capturing the regional governor’s office. Eyewitness accounts report citizens greeted the fighters enthusiastically as they entered the city without encountering any resistance. Bukavu’s capture follows the recent fall of Goma, causing concern over the escalating conflict in this mineral-rich region.
The Congolese government has acknowledged the loss of Bukavu and has advised residents to remain indoors to avoid clashes with the occupying forces. The United Nations and various European nations have expressed alarm, noting that such offensives have already displaced hundreds of thousands and raise the risk of a broader regional conflict.
Residents express fear and anxiety about the ongoing violence, with one anonymous local reporting gunfire and looting since the rebels’ arrival. She noted a chaotic atmosphere with local youths taking up arms, likely due to the absence of authority in the city. Gunshots were heard throughout the area, creating a palpable sense of danger for civilians.
The M23 group captured Bukavu’s main airport prior to entering the city, consolidating their control over the strategic location which serves as a vital hub for the region. According to provincial governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, Congolese troops retreated to prevent urban combat, leading to an alarming security vacuum characterized by prison breaks and looting of food supplies.
Bukavu, with approximately two million residents, borders Rwanda and plays a significant role in regional mineral trade. Its fall marks a considerable territorial gain for the M23 rebels since their resurgence in late 2021, posing a significant challenge to President Félix Tshisekedi’s government. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya accused Rwanda of undermining Congolese sovereignty through its alleged military support for the rebels.
President Tshisekedi seeks to impose sanctions against Rwandan President Paul Kagame over the turmoil; however, Kagame insists that Rwanda prioritizes its national security. He attributes the unrest to perceived failures by Congolese authorities to tackle the FLDR rebel group, which poses a threat to Rwanda’s safety.
M23 commander Bernard Byamungu addressed the locals in Bukavu, encouraging government forces to surrender and accusing them of inciting fear among citizens. The African Union has once again called upon the rebel group to disarm, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent the outbreak of a regional war as the situation remains volatile.
The recent seizure of Bukavu by M23 rebels highlights the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, now threatening regional stability. With international warnings of a potential broader war, the Congolese government’s inability to maintain control has raised serious concerns among citizens. Rwanda’s involvement exacerbates tensions as leadership calls for accountability and action against the ongoing violence. The situation remains dire as civilians face the immediate effects of warfare, looting, and insecurity.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
