M23 rebels have taken over Bukavu, the DRC’s second-largest city, with minimal resistance. This follows their seizure of Goma and signals a territorial expansion that raises concerns of escalating conflict. Local frustrations regarding government inaction emerge, while M23 pledges to restore order in Bukavu, amid claims of Rwandan military backing.
M23 rebels have successfully captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant development as the Congolese government confirms the takeover. The takeover follows the group’s recent advance southward after seizing Goma, the capital of North Kivu. The DRC communications ministry issued a statement acknowledging the situation, noting the involvement of Rwandan forces in the region while vowing efforts to restore security and territorial integrity.
On Friday, after the rebels entered Bukavu, local resident Blaise Byamungu expressed frustrations about government inaction during the crisis, stating, “Is the government waiting for them to take over other towns to take action? It’s cowardice.” The M23 fighters faced minimal resistance during their march, highlighting the challenges faced by Congolese authorities.
The militia has announced intentions to address the disorder caused by the previous administration. Bernard Byamungu, a leader of the M23, stood before the governor’s office, asserting, “We are going to clean up the disorder left over from the old regime,” as he promised an end to the chaos under the old regime.
M23 is among over 100 armed groups engaging with Congolese forces in the eastern DRC, claiming to protect the Congolese Tutsi and other minority rights amid historic violence from Hutu groups. Accusations against Rwanda for supporting M23 accompany declarations from UN experts stating that Rwandan troops maintain de facto control of the group, which has been vehemently denied by the Rwandan government.
The Burundian army had previously provided support to the Congolese military to protect Bukavu. However, the M23’s recent actions signify an unprecedented territorial expansion as a militia since it re-emerged in 2022, leading to escalating concerns about a potential regional conflict. The recent fighting has exacerbated humanitarian crises across the area, complicating efforts to assist nearly 350,000 internally displaced individuals in the region.
On Saturday, the Congo River Alliance coalition, which includes M23, promised to protect the citizens of Bukavu, urging them to remain calm during the turbulent period. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated their commitment to the populace’s defense and urged citizens not to yield to fear.
Amidst these developments, the DRC government has advised calm and safety measures, instructing residents to stay indoors to avoid possible confrontations with the occupying forces. This situation represents a significant deterioration in the conflict within the region, necessitating urgent attention to restore peace and security.
The capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels highlights a significant intensification of violence in eastern DRC, demonstrating the complexities of local and regional security dynamics. The involvement of Rwandan forces, alongside humanitarian crises impacting hundreds of thousands, underscores the urgent need for international engagement to stabilize the region. Local residents express frustration with government responses, while rebel leadership promises a shift away from previous governance failures.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
