M23 Rebels Strengthen Control Over Bukavu Amid Rising Tensions
M23 rebels have tightened their control over Bukavu, following its capture from Congolese forces. This move marks a significant escalation in the region’s ongoing conflict, as local residents prepare for life under the new leadership. Protests against the U.N. peacekeeping presence reflect growing dissatisfaction with the current political climate.
On Monday, Rwanda-backed M23 rebels solidified their control over Bukavu, the second major city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following its capture on Sunday. The city, which has a population of approximately 1.3 million, fell to the rebels after Congolese forces abandoned it. Bukavu is situated 101 kilometers south of Goma, another strategic city seized by the M23 in late January.
The M23 is the most prominent among the over 100 armed factions competing for dominance in eastern Congo, a region rich in vital minerals essential for global technology. U.N. experts estimate that around 4,000 Rwandan troops are supporting the M23 rebels. This ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of more than 6 million individuals, resulting in the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.
As the M23 rebels entered Bukavu, the streets were filled with residents fleeing and looters, who were gathering supplies. A heavy silence enveloped the area as inhabitants mentally prepared for the rebels’ governance. By Monday morning, some locals cautiously resumed their routines while soldiers patrolled key city intersections.
“People are still scared to go out because of the insecurity so it’s not business as usual yet,” remarked David Balezi, a local shopkeeper. Meanwhile, Bukavu’s border with Rwanda was closed along with numerous shops, although traffic began to revive later in the day.
“Now we thank God that the situation is OK, even if we don’t know what’s coming. Whatever happens, we will live with it,” said David Munyaga, a Bukavu resident. Rebel-appointed governor Erasto Bahati Musanga announced the reopening of Goma and Bukavu’s ports on Tuesday after a ban on navigation on Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s largest lakes, was imposed following the offensive on Goma.
In Goma, under M23 control, large crowds protested against the United Nations peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, and demanded the withdrawal of Southern African Development Community troops. Demonstrators staged a sit-in at the MONUSCO headquarters, voicing discontent towards President Felix Tshisekedi’s leadership.
“The war does not end in Congo, why? They have nothing to do here, they should leave,” stated protester Bauma Sukali. Fellow protester Fiston Nsabimana expressed dissatisfaction, declaring, “Tshisekedi is not able to ensure peace. Let him leave power.”
In summary, the M23 rebels’ recent capture of Bukavu emphasizes the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, exacerbated by foreign military support and resulting in widespread humanitarian distress. The resistance among locals highlights a growing discontent with governmental authority and foreign presence, pressing for change amidst uncertainty. As tensions rise, the call for peace remains urgent in a region plagued by turmoil and instability.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
