M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, DRC’s second largest city, following their rapid advance through the eastern region. The Congolese government confirmed the rebels’ presence and noted Rwandan troop involvement. Amidst chaos, some local residents welcomed the rebels while others fled or faced violence. The situation draws international attention amid calls for peace and stability in the region.
The recent surge of M23 rebels has seen their entry into Bukavu, the second most populous city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Jean-Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, confirmed this rapid advance, noting the withdrawal of Congolese troops to prevent urban conflict. This development follows the rebels’ capture of Goma earlier this year, representing a pivotal expansion of their territory since the rebellion resumed in 2022.
The DRC government acknowledged the presence of the M23 rebels in Bukavu, claiming that Rwandan troops are accompanying them. Officials have refrained from stating that the entire city is under rebel control. The government further stated, “Rwanda is stubbornly pursuing its plan to occupy, pillage and commit crimes and serious human rights violations on our soil.”
Local sources reported sightings of the M23 in the city, with a spokesperson for the group confirming their presence. Willy Ngoma, the rebels’ spokesperson, declared, “We are there.” Additionally, reports indicated that the M23’s senior commander was seen engaging with the local population, attempting to reassure residents following the Congolese military’s retreat due to escalating tensions.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene preceding the rebels’ arrival, with looting rampant and civilians fleeing. Claude Bisimwa, a local resident, recounted transporting the bodies of individuals killed during the disturbances, emphasizing the deliberate nature of the violence. Despite the initial panic, reports emerged of enthusiasm from some residents as they expressed their support for the M23, chanting for change and expressing their frustrations regarding unemployment and insecurity.
Following the M23’s occupation of Kavumu Airport with minimal resistance, Bukavu is now facing significant strategic challenges. This incident occurs concurrently with discussions at an African Union summit in Ethiopia, where regional leaders address the ongoing conflict in the DRC. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the importance of maintaining regional stability and respecting the sovereignty of the DRC amidst these developments.
The UK Foreign Office condemned the actions of the M23 and Rwandan Defense Forces, framing them as infringements on DRC’s territorial integrity and a violation of international law. The UK emphasized the need for immediate cessation of hostilities and advocated for a peaceful resolution to the conflict through African-led dialogues. The situation continues to demand urgent and decisive intervention from international observers, with the M23 being one of over one hundred armed factions in the region.
The ongoing conflict, driven by the ambitions of armed groups like the M23, has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, displacing over six million people and exacerbating conditions in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. The repercussions of these skirmishes have been profound, leaving at least 350,000 individuals homeless since the onset of the latest rebel advances.
The entry of M23 rebels into Bukavu marks a critical escalation in the conflict in eastern DRC, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations. The DRC government and local authorities face significant challenges as they respond to the crisis. The ongoing humanitarian situation highlights the urgent need for resolution and aid to displaced populations as violence continues. International calls for action emphasize the importance of restoring peace and addressing the root causes of the conflict.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
