M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, following their earlier conquest of Goma. The Congolese government has acknowledged the situation, expressing efforts to restore security. Local residents report feeling abandoned, and the conflict poses a significant humanitarian crisis affecting hundreds of thousands. The rebel group asserts it will protect local citizens while accusations of Rwandan support for the militia continue.
M23 rebels have successfully taken control of Bukavu, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo’s second-largest city, as confirmed by the Congolese government. This follows an aggressive offensive that began when the militia captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The DRC’s communications ministry has acknowledged the situation, stating efforts are underway to restore order amid the reported involvement of the Rwandan army in the conflict.
The assault on Bukavu witnessed minimal resistance, a sentiment echoed by local residents who feel abandoned by government authorities. One resident, Blaise Byamungu expressed frustration, stating that it seems the government is reluctant to respond until more towns fall to the rebels.
As the rebels marched toward the governor’s office, M23 leader Bernard Byamungu declared intentions to alter the current state of affairs, stating that they would rectify the chaos left by the previous government. He referred to the past conditions as a “jungle,” indicating a dire need for change.
M23 is among over 100 armed groups fighting in eastern DRC, claiming to protect the Congolese Tutsi and other minorities from Hutu rebel factions seeking refuge in the region. The DRC, United States, and various international entities have accused Rwanda of providing support to M23, a claim the Rwandan government denies, while UN experts assert that Rwandan forces exercise de facto control over the militia.
The situation has led to the involvement of the Burundian army, which was aiding the Congolese army to defend Bukavu. The capture of the city marks a significant territorial gain for M23 since its resurgence in 2022, heightening fears of an escalated regional conflict. This year alone, violence has taken the lives of nearly 3,000 individuals and left around 350,000 people internally displaced due to the humanitarian crisis.
In response, the Congo River Alliance, which includes various militias such as M23, has pledged to protect Bukavu inhabitants, urging the populace to maintain control and avoid panic. Concurrently, the DRC government has called for calm, encouraging residents to stay indoors to minimize risks from the conflict.
The M23 militia’s seizure of Bukavu represents a critical development in the ongoing conflict within the eastern DRC, highlighting the militia’s growing strength and the humanitarian crisis resulting from the violence. The involvement of external forces, including Rwanda and Burundi, alongside the severe implications for local populations, underscores the need for international attention and intervention in the region.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
