Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, escalating tensions in eastern DRC and raising fears of a regional conflict. Their promise to restore security follows significant humanitarian disruptions, with looting reported in the city. Economic activities are gradually resuming, yet the humanitarian crisis deepens with the involvement of Rwandan troops in support of the insurgency.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the second major city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since late last month. The rebels have vowed to restore security in this region, which now raises concerns over the potential escalation of conflict into a regional war. Following the takeover of Bukavu, residents cautiously began to return to the streets, while the Congolese army fled the advancing rebel forces.
As thousands sought refuge in neighboring Burundi, some local residents welcomed the M23 rebels as they entered Bukavu. A statement from the rebel alliance promised assistance to the people who felt abandoned by the Congolese army. “Our forces have been working to restore the security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population,” the rebels proclaimed.
The fall of Bukavu adds to the authority’s challenges in Kinshasa, as the M23, also known as the March 23 Movement, continues to capture significant territory in eastern DRC. The situation intensified following their recent conquest of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, prompting fears of increased violence and displacement in the region. The UN reported significant casualties from the ongoing fighting between the M23 and government forces.
Erasto Bahati Musanga, the governor appointed by the M23 in North Kivu, indicated that ports in both Bukavu and Goma would be reopened soon. This change marks an end to restrictions on navigation in Lake Kivu, which had been imposed amid the conflict. Despite the avoidance of a massacre in Bukavu, disorder in the city led to looting of humanitarian warehouses and local businesses.
The World Food Programme reported that looters had stolen 7,000 tonnes of vital food supplies over the weekend, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Pascal Zulu, a local shop owner, expressed despair over the destruction of his business, stating, “The thugs arrived, they took everything, and nothing remains. I’m really upset.” Economic activities are slowly resuming as traders begin to return to markets in the city, despite low customer turnout.
The M23 remains one of over 100 armed groups competing for control of eastern Congo’s mineral wealth, supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. Rwanda has denied the allegations made by the DRC and international observers regarding its military support for the M23, intensifying the geopolitical complexities in the region.
The M23 rebels’ takeover of Bukavu demonstrates an alarming escalation of conflict in eastern DRC. Promising to restore order, the rebels have fueled fears of regional warfare while the humanitarian situation deteriorates due to looting and economic disruption. The involvement of Rwandan troops complicates matters further, highlighting the region’s intricate and volatile dynamics. Enhanced international humanitarian efforts and dialogue among conflicting parties are vital to stabilize the situation and support affected communities.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
