M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the DRC’s second-largest city, following their recent assault. The Congolese government confirmed the occupation and is working to restore order in the region. Local residents expressed concerns about the absence of government support, while M23 leaders promised to change the status quo. The ongoing violence has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced.
The M23 rebel group has successfully captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to confirmation from the Congolese government. This occupation follows a recent assault launched by the Rwanda-backed militia, leading to the city’s occupation with minimal resistance. The DRC’s communications ministry has acknowledged monitoring the situation, emphasizing its commitment to restore order and security amidst the conflict.
On the recent Friday, M23 fighters entered Bukavu after advancing southward from Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, which they had taken over the previous month. Local resident Blaise Byamungu expressed despair, claiming the authorities had abandoned the area, stating, “Is the government waiting for them to take over other towns to take action? It’s cowardice.” He further lamented the lack of supportive forces in defending the city.
During a public display, M23 leader Bernard Byamungu stood outside the governor’s office and pledged to reform the chaotic situation, asserting, “We are going to clean up the disorder left over from the old regime.” He addressed a gathering crowd, highlighting their previous struggles and promising changes.
M23 is part of a larger group of over 100 armed factions in eastern DRC, where it claims to protect the interests of Congolese Tutsi and other minority populations against Hutu militants. While the DRC, alongside the United States and others, accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, the Rwandan government refutes these allegations. However, United Nations experts have stated that Rwanda’s military has significant influence over the group.
The Burundian military previously assisted the Congolese army in safeguarding Bukavu, and M23’s territorial gains signify a concerning extension of their influence since their resurgence in 2022. The capture of the city escalates the potential for a broader regional conflict, as previous skirmishes resulted in extensive loss of life, with reports indicating nearly 3,000 fatalities in the Goma confrontations alone.
The ongoing violence exacerbates an existing humanitarian crisis, having destroyed approximately 70,000 emergency shelters in the Goma and Minova areas, leaving around 350,000 internally displaced individuals vulnerable. In response to the situation, the Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, assured the populace of Bukavu of its commitment to protect them, urging, “We call on the population to remain in control of their city and not give in to panic.”
In light of these developments, the DRC government has appealed for calm, advising residents to remain indoors to avoid potential confrontations with the occupying forces. The communications ministry reiterated this message through social media, encouraging responsibilities among citizens to safeguard their well-being.
In summary, the M23 militia’s capture of Bukavu represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, with implications for regional security. The Congolese government is making efforts to restore peace amidst accusations of Rwandan involvement and a deteriorating humanitarian situation that has left many in dire circumstances. As events unfold, the hope remains for the restoration of stability, although the challenges appear daunting.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
