M23 fighters, backed by Rwandan troops, have captured Bukavu, a major city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, raising concerns over regional stability. The Congolese armed forces largely abandoned the city, leading to a security crisis for residents. Growing international calls for Rwanda to cease support for M23 underscore the potential for further conflict in the region.
On February 16, columns of M23 fighters, supported by Rwandan troops, advanced into the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, capturing the crucial city of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. This development comes after the group took control of the regional airport and signifies a troubling escalation in the ongoing conflict, with hopes dwindling for stability in the region.
The M23’s takeover leaves the city of one million residents vulnerable, as the Congolese armed forces primarily retreated, abandoning their posts and military assets. Civilians faced widespread looting and violence, prompting many residents to seek refuge in their homes amidst escalating tensions and unrest.
The DRC government asserts the presence of approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers within its borders, while international pressure mounts for Rwanda to retract its military support of M23, which remains adamant in denying such involvement. The situation raises alarms regarding potential regional conflict.
In response to the unrest, M23 has urged Bukavu’s inhabitants to create vigilance committees to maintain security while demanding the removal of Burundian troops supporting the Congolese army. Nonetheless, sporadic gunfire continues to disrupt the already fragile calm, particularly near military installations.
The conflict’s expansion raises concerns of a broader war, prompting multiple calls from the international community for de-escalation and a ceasefire. The African Union’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Bankole Adeoye, emphasized the need to prevent further deterioration of stability, calling for the withdrawal of M23 and its affiliates from strategic locations, including Goma airport.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed calls to respect the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s territorial integrity while urging against a potential regional conflagration. The ongoing struggle with M23 has persisted for over three years, stemming from accusations of Rwandan motives related to mineral resource control, which Rwanda contests, citing its own security concerns from various militia groups.
The recent capture of Bukavu by M23 and Rwandan forces signifies a critical moment in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The international community has increasingly called for peace and stability in the region, urging for the withdrawal of involved armed groups. Continued tensions highlight the complexities of regional security and the longstanding impact of historical grievances in the area.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
