Rwanda-Backed Rebels Expand Control in Bukavu Amidst Rising Tensions
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have reached Bukavu, Congo’s second-largest city, with minimal resistance from local forces. Their movement has drawn both support and fear from residents, amid a growing humanitarian crisis affecting millions. The situation poses risks for regional stability as the international community calls for dialogue amidst military actions.
On Sunday morning, Rwanda-backed rebels reached the heart of Bukavu, the second-largest city in East Congo, achieving a remarkable territorial expansion with minimal resistance from government forces. Associated Press reporters observed numerous residents in central Bukavu cheering for the M23 rebels as they navigated the city following a lengthy march from Goma, where they recently gained control. Despite the visible presence of the rebels throughout Bukavu, several neighborhoods appeared deserted with residents opting to remain indoors.
The M23 group, which is the most notable among over 100 armed factions in the mineral-rich eastern Congo, has the backing of approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda. This escalation in conflict has triggered the displacement of over six million individuals, marking it as one of the world’s gravest humanitarian crises, with at least 350,000 homeless after the advance into Goma. It remains uncertain whether the M23 has fully secured Bukavu, although rebels have established positions at crucial locations in the city, with little indication of armed confrontations.
Resident Blaise Byamungu expressed exasperation at the apparent abandonment of the city by government forces, stating, “Is the government waiting for them to take over other towns to take action? It’s cowardice.” Unlike previous engagements in 2012 centered around ethnic tensions, analysts suggest that the M23 rebels now have aspirations for political dominance, as evidenced by the sight of fleeing Congolese soldiers and civilians during the advancing threats of the rebel group.
Congo’s President, Felix Tshisekedi, convened a security meeting in Kinshasa, indicating that although Bukavu was briefly breached, it remains under Congolese military control. He cautioned about the potential for the conflict to escalate regionally, with the Congolese forces receiving assistance from Burundian troops in Bukavu and South African soldiers in Goma. Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye implied near-inaction in the conflict, stating that aggressors would not find opportunities during these turbulent times.
The conflict was a leading topic at the African Union summit in Ethiopia, where UN Secretary General António Guterres emphasized the need for respect towards Congo’s sovereignty. While the international community calls for a ceasefire and negotiation, it has shown hesitance towards significant measures against M23 or its Rwandan support. The Congo River Alliance has pledged to protect the citizens of Bukavu, urging calm in light of their presence, with spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka calling for public control over the situation.
The ongoing conflict in Congo is deeply rooted in a complex ethnic struggle, with M23 asserting its role in defending ethnic Tutsis within Congo. Rwanda alleges that these Tutsis are targeted by Hutu militias and remnants linked to the historical genocide of 1994, claiming that these groups are now integrated within the Congolese military, a charge that Kinshasa denies.
The recent advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels into Bukavu highlights a significant shift in control in eastern Congo, raising concerns about political intentions behind their actions. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate with millions displaced and a backdrop of ethnic conflict complicating the situation further. International attention remains focused on the need for dialogue, with potential regional implications if the conflict endures.
Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com
