M23 rebels, aided by Rwandan forces, have captured Bukavu in the DRC after previously seizing Goma. The Congo River Alliance claims their intervention is for local security, while the Congolese government acknowledges the occupation and attempts to restore order. Amidst ongoing humanitarian crises, the situation remains precarious with significant displacement and loss of life.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have recently captured Bukavu, the second major city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following their earlier takeover of Goma. The Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, stated that their forces stepped in to assist Bukavu’s population with its security concerns under the previous government.
Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the alliance, emphasized that the aim of the rebels is to restore security for the local residents, asserting that they have received positive support from the populace. Meanwhile, Bernard Maheshe Byamungu, an M23 official facing UN sanctions for human rights abuses, claimed that residents have been living in chaos and promised to rectify the disarray left by the previous administration.
The Congolese government has publicly acknowledged the occupation of Bukavu, stating they are working diligently to restore order and territorial integrity to the area. South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed that Congolese troops had vacated the city to prevent conflict in heavily populated regions, stating that officials and staff had already evacuated safely.
This development follows the rebels’ capture of Kavumu airport, a strategic location for the Congolese military serving the South Kivu province. Local civil society leaders have expressed their belief that Bukavu can no longer sustain itself given the current circumstances.
Residents reported that the M23 forces entered a city devoid of any local government presence, condemning the national authorities for what they viewed as inactivity in addressing the situation. The M23, which is one of over 100 armed groups in eastern DRC, had initiated its campaign in January with the goal of moving to Kinshasa, the national capital.
Despite announcing a ceasefire earlier this month, the alliance’s spokesperson reiterated that their intention to capture Bukavu was never a priority. However, the region has experienced a significant humanitarian crisis, with over six million individuals displaced and nearly 3,000 fatalities recorded in recent conflict. UN experts indicate that the M23 is bolstered by an estimated 4,000 Rwandan troops, a considerable increase compared to the situation in 2012.
Rwanda denies its involvement with the rebels, framing the conflict as a protective measure for ethnic Tutsis in eastern DRC against Hutu forces associated with the historical Rwandan genocide.
In summary, the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have taken control of Bukavu after previously seizing Goma, highlighting political instability and a deteriorating security situation in the DRC. The Congolese government is working to regain control, although significant humanitarian challenges persist, and local residents have expressed deep concerns regarding governmental inaction. The presence of Rwandan troops alongside M23 raises questions about the complexities of regional politics and ethnic strife in East Africa.
Original Source: news.sky.com
