M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu, Escalating Conflict in Eastern DRC
M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, following their earlier victory in Goma. The Congolese government is monitoring the situation amid claims of Rwandan support for the militia. The takeover exacerbates existing humanitarian crises, with thousands displaced and a risk of escalating regional conflict.
M23 rebels have successfully captured and occupied Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to confirmation from the Congolese government. This takeover occurred shortly after the militia, believed to be backed by Rwanda, launched an offensive. The DRC’s communications ministry has announced that it is actively monitoring the situation and taking steps to restore order and security in the region.
The M23 group entered Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, following a swift southern advance after their earlier victory in Goma, North Kivu’s capital. During this latest incursion, the militia reportedly faced minimal resistance. Local resident Blaise Byamungu expressed frustration, stating that authorities had abandoned them, leading to a feeling of insecurity.
This weekend, M23 members approached the governor’s office, where their leader, Bernard Byamungu, vowed to transform the region’s chaotic environment. He addressed a small gathering, emphasizing a commitment to eliminate the remnants of the previous regime’s disorder. M23, among more than 100 armed factions in the resource-rich eastern DRC, claims to protect the interests of Congolese Tutsis and other minority groups.
While the DRC, the United States, and other nations have accused Rwanda of supporting M23, Rwanda has consistently denied these allegations. However, UN experts have noted that Rwanda’s military operates with significant influence over the group. The Burundian army had previously supported DRC forces to safeguard Bukavu, but M23’s recent acquisition of the city represents a considerable territorial expansion for the militia since its resurgence in 2022, heightening the risk of a broader regional conflict.
The ongoing fighting has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in eastern DRC, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread displacement. The conflict surrounding Goma alone has accounted for almost 3,000 fatalities and thousands of injuries. The United Nations reports that the violence has obliterated approximately 70,000 emergency shelters, leaving an estimated 350,000 internally displaced individuals vulnerable.
On a recent Saturday, the Congo River Alliance, a coalition of militias that includes M23, affirmed its dedication to protecting Bukavu’s residents. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka urged the community to maintain control of their city and to remain calm in the face of the incursion. In response, the DRC government has called for public tranquility, advising residents to stay indoors to avoid confrontation with the occupying forces.
In summary, the M23 rebels’ capture of Bukavu signals a significant escalation in hostilities within the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The situation poses serious challenges for the DRC government and worsens the ongoing humanitarian crisis. As violence continues, international scrutiny and local responses will be crucial in determining the future stability of the region.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
