The M23 rebels have captured the airport near the vital city of Bukavu in the DRC, advancing amidst international calls for a ceasefire. The conflict has displaced numerous civilians as the Congolese army faces off against the insurgents. Tensions remain high, with a looming African Union summit addressing the escalating violence and accusations directed at Rwanda for its involvement in the conflict.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the M23 rebel group has taken control of the airport serving Bukavu, marking a significant escalation in their ongoing military campaign. This advance has occurred despite international pleas for a ceasefire and the revival of peace negotiations. The recent hostilities have resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians in the region.
Last month, the M23, reportedly receiving support from Rwanda, captured Goma, a pivotal city in the resource-rich eastern DRC. During the recent clashes at Kavumu, where the airport is located, the Congolese army and its allied militias retreated with minimal resistance.
Currently, the rebels are situated approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. Jean Elekano, the deputy governor of the region, reported intense fighting between the Congolese military and the M23 forces on the city’s outskirts, asserting that government troops are still actively engaged.
Residents of Bukavu have expressed significant concern over the escalating violence, with authorities urging them to remain indoors for safety. This development of conflict coincides with an upcoming African Union summit in Ethiopia, where leaders are expected to address the situation.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, head of the African Union Commission, emphasized the necessity of observing a ceasefire and remarked, “Military campaigns are not going to solve these problems.” He indicated a unified stance across Africa to impose this ceasefire amidst allegations that Rwanda is supporting the rebels, which the Rwandan government has denied.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has cited national security as a priority, claiming threats from Hutu rebels operating in the DRC, while rejecting any notion of sanctions. Additionally, the Congolese government has accused Rwanda of unlawfully annexing mineral-rich territories within the DRC.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC highlights the urgent need for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks as rebel advances raise grave concerns for regional stability and the safety of civilians. The international community’s call for peace is more pressing than ever, particularly with allegations against Rwanda complicating the situation further.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
