Congo Reports Occupation of Bukavu by Rwanda-Backed M23 Rebels

Congo reports the occupation of Bukavu by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, with limited government resistance noted. The rebellion has intensified, raising fears of regional conflict amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting over six million. Leaders express intentions to restore order, while calls for dialogue from the international community remain urgent.

The government of Congo has reported that Rwanda-backed rebels have occupied a second significant city, Bukavu, in the mineral-rich eastern region. The M23 rebels have positioned themselves at the governor’s office and have expressed intentions to clean up the perceived chaos left by the previous regime. Following a march from Goma, residents welcomed the rebels with cheers, revealing the limited resistance encountered from government forces.

Bukavu, with a population of 1.3 million, appears largely abandoned by local authorities, prompting concerns regarding the government’s response to the ongoing rebellion. The M23, having intensified its operations over the years, now poses a significant threat given its strong military support, estimated at around 4,000 troops from Rwanda. The severity of the situation is underscored by the displacement of over six million people in the region, contributing to a humanitarian crisis.

Bernard Maheshe Byamungu, an M23 leader sanctioned by the UN for human rights violations, articulated the group’s intention to restore order, claiming that the populace had been living in a state of disorder. Contrarily, analysis suggests that the M23 rebels might now seek political power, contrasting with their past behavior when they briefly seized Goma but retreated under international pressure.

The roots of the conflict are deeply intertwined with ethnic tensions, specifically concerning the Tutsi community, as the M23 claims to be defending their rights against Hutu militia groups. However, the current leadership of the M23 reflects a more diverse Congolese presence, moving beyond its initial portrayal as a solely Tutsi defense force. President Felix Tshisekedi has raised alarms about the potential for regional escalation and emphasized the government’s efforts to maintain territorial integrity.

Support for Congo’s military actions comes from regional allies, including South Africa and Burundi, despite mixed signals regarding comprehensive military support from Burundi. The African Union and the UN have highlighted the conflict’s significance, with calls for ceasefire and dialogue resonating among international leaders, who seem hesitant to take decisive actions against the rebels or their Rwandan backers.

In summary, the occupation of Bukavu by M23 rebels, who have received support from Rwanda, marks a significant escalation in the conflict in eastern Congo. The government’s inability to effectively respond, combined with the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions, underscores the urgent need for a resolution. As international entities call for dialogue, the regional implications of the conflict remain a pressing concern.

Original Source: www.newspressnow.com