The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have seized Bukavu in eastern DRC, promising security amidst escalating conflict fears. Following minimal resistance from the Congolese army, local residents cautiously resumed activities, while thousands fled to Burundi. The rebels aim to assist the population they claim was abandoned, but rampant looting and a humanitarian crisis have emerged as significant challenges. Meanwhile, international concerns grow regarding Rwanda’s support for the M23 and the implications for regional stability.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have gained control of Bukavu, the second significant city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), promising to restore security amidst increasing regional conflict concerns. This takeover occurred with minimal resistance from the Congolese army, leading many local residents to cautiously resume their activities the following day.
Following the M23’s advance, thousands of individuals have fled to Burundi, while those who remained largely welcomed the presence of the rebels. A representative from M23 assured via local radio that their forces would assist Bukavu’s population, which they claim had been abandoned by the Congolese army, and expressed their commitment to safeguarding both people and property in the city.
The M23, established as the March 23 Movement, has escalated its territorial acquisitions in eastern DRC since re-engaging in conflict in late 2021. Their capture of Bukavu further undermines the legitimacy of the Kinshasa government, igniting fears of broader regional warfare, especially following the recent capture of Goma in North Kivu.
Erasto Bahati Musanga, appointed governor by the rebels for North Kivu, announced a reopening of critical ports in both Bukavu and Goma, which have been inactive since January due to heightened conflicts. Despite avoiding significant bloodshed in Bukavu, instances of looting by residents who took advantage of the chaos led to considerable losses, including over 7,000 tonnes of food supplies meant for vulnerable families.
Pascal Zulu, a shopkeeper affected by the looting, expressed his distress at losing everything to opportunistic thieves, questioning how he would repay his business loans. Nevertheless, some economic activity is gradually returning, with a few traders attempting to restart their businesses despite the scarcity of customers, indicating a glimmer of recuperation within the community.
The M23 reigns as one of over one hundred armed factions contending for control over the rich mineral resources of eastern Congo. UN experts estimate approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops are backing the group, although the Rwandan government has consistently denied allegations of direct support for the M23.
The recent capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels marks a pivotal escalation in the DRC’s ongoing conflict, exacerbating fears of wider regional instability. The rebels have vowed to restore security for the local population, yet reports of looting and humanitarian crises loom large. The situation underscores the complexities of foreign involvement in the conflict and the dire need for international humanitarian law adherence to safeguard civilian welfare.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
