The M23 armed group, supported by Rwandan troops, seized Bukavu in the DRC on February 16, 2023, following their capture of the nearby airport. The Congolese armed forces abandoned the city, leading to chaos and looting. The African Union and UN have raised alarms of potential regional conflict as calls for de-escalation continue without resolution.
On February 16, 2023, columns of M23 fighters, allied with Rwandan troops, advanced into Bukavu, a significant city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This development has sparked concerns from the African Union regarding the potential fragmentation of the already strife-torn DRC. Following their control of Bukavu’s airport, the rebels captured outlying districts, further cementing their influence over the region, which includes Lake Kivu and the earlier capture of Goma.
The situation in Bukavu deteriorated rapidly, as the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) largely abandoned the city, resulting in widespread chaos. Civilians witnessed extensive looting, and many sought refuge in their homes. The DRC government estimates that approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are present in the eastern region, although Rwanda has denied these claims, prompting international calls for the cessation of its military support for M23.
On Saturday, M23 urged the residents of Bukavu to form vigilance committees to maintain security. They also demanded the immediate withdrawal of Burundian troops supporting the Congolese army. Despite some ongoing gunfire near military installations, international calls for de-escalation remain largely unheeded, intensifying fears of a potential regional conflict.
The African Union’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Bankole Adeoye, expressed concerns over the possible balkanization of eastern DRC during a summit in Addis Ababa. He called for the immediate removal of the M23 group and their allies. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the DRC’s territorial integrity to prevent further conflict.
In summary, the seizure of Bukavu by M23 fighters amid the backing of Rwandan troops has raised alarm within the international community regarding the stability of the DRC. As the situation escalates, calls for a ceasefire and withdrawal of foreign military support intensify, with concerns that the conflict may lead to broader regional instability. Efforts to restore order face challenges, leaving many civilians vulnerable amidst the unfolding crisis.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
