M23 Rebels Take Control of Bukavu, Vow to Restore Security
M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have captured Bukavu in the DRC, vowing to restore security amidst fears of escalating violence. Many residents of Bukavu experienced looting post-takeover, including significant humanitarian supply losses, while the economic activities cautiously resume as the M23 consolidates its power in the region.
In the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized control of Bukavu, the second major city in this area. Residents ventured tentatively into the streets following the takeover, which occurred with minimal resistance from the Congolese army, leading to widespread fears of escalating conflict in the region.
The M23 rebels have declared their intent to restore order and provide security for the citizens of Bukavu, asserting that many residents felt abandoned by the Congolese military. In a local radio statement, the rebel alliance expressed commitment to safeguard both people and their property. As the M23’s influence grows, the situation in Bukavu reflects ongoing instability amid fears of a larger regional conflict.
After the fall of Bukavu, many citizens have fled to nearby Burundi, with some locals welcoming the M23 fighters as they arrived. The capture of this key city has further undermined governmental authority, especially after the rebels previously took Goma in North Kivu province last month, intensifying military engagements in the region.
Erasto Bahati Musanga, the governor appointed by the M23 in North Kivu, announced the reopening of ports in both Bukavu and Goma. However, while conflicts subsided quickly in Bukavu, the aftermath revealed considerable looting, including approximately 7,000 tons of humanitarian food supplies stolen from local warehouses, intensifying the humanitarian crisis.
Pascal Zulu, a local shopkeeper, lamented the looting that destroyed his business, stating, “The thugs arrived, they took everything, and nothing remains. I’m really upset. I don’t know how I’m going to repay the money I borrowed.” Despite these challenges, economic activities are slowly resuming as local traders reopen markets.
The M23 rebels are among numerous armed groups competing for control of eastern Congo’s vast mineral resources, supported by roughly 4,000 Rwandan troops, as per UN experts. Rwanda, however, has denied allegations regarding its military backing of the M23, further complicating the geopolitical situation in the region.
In conclusion, the ongoing advances of the M23 rebels, including the recent capture of Bukavu, have significant implications for stability in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The promises of security paired with the requisite military support from Rwanda raise concerns over regional conflict and humanitarian crises. Effective measures must be undertaken to restore order and address the needs of dislocated and affected populations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
