M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, DRC’s second-largest city, amid escalating conflict with government forces. Local reports indicated incursions into urban neighborhoods and gunfire within the area, alongside claims of capturing Kavumu airport. This advancement has resulted in significant humanitarian displacement, with tensions rising over accusations of foreign involvement in the conflict, complicating the situation further.
M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant progression in their ongoing conflict with government forces. On Friday, local leaders reported an incursion into the Kazingu and Bagira neighborhoods, with gunfire echoing in various parts of the city, which houses approximately 1.3 million residents.
Footage circulating online purportedly shows rebels marching within the Bagira area, while a voice off-camera indicated their large presence. Earlier that day, the M23 claimed to have overtaken a second airport in the vicinity amid escalating violence, displacing 350,000 individuals according to U.N. reports.
Sources reported that the M23 has encircled Kavumu national airport, which is roughly 30 kilometers from Bukavu. Observers noted a notable retreat of Congolese soldiers as the clashes intensified. Control of the airport has not been verified, and reaction from government officials was not immediately available.
Following their seizure of Goma, the largest city in the region, and its international airport in January, the M23’s capture of Kavumu airport aims to neutralize potential threats to the civilian population, per a statement by M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka.
The Congolese Communication Ministry condemned the rebels for breaching a ceasefire, accusing them of initiating urban conflict against FARDC forces, who are attempting to minimize casualties. Heightening tensions between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group continue to undermine stability.
The DRC government has labeled M23 a terrorist organization, while the U.N. and the United States classify it as an armed group. Additionally, accusations persist regarding Rwanda’s alleged support for M23, which Kigali denies, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in the region.
Ongoing military actions entail severe humanitarian implications and widespread displacement. Analysts caution that persistent instability may exacerbate the regional conflict, noting fatalities among Southern African Development Community peacekeepers since the recent escalation of hostilities.
The situation in eastern DRC is precarious, with M23 rebels making significant territorial gains in Bukavu and surrounding areas. The escalation in violence has resulted in a substantial humanitarian crisis, as thousands are displaced and regional tensions mount. The conflict remains fluid, necessitating a concerted international response to mitigate further destabilization and loss of life. The DRC government’s classification of M23 as a terrorist group highlights the severity of the situation and underscores the need for effective and peaceful conflict resolution strategies. Given the complex interplay of regional dynamics and allegations of foreign involvement, a comprehensive diplomatic approach is crucial to ensure stability and safety for the affected populations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
