M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have captured Bukavu, DR Congo’s second-largest city. Residents reacted with a mixture of fear and support as the government advised staying home. With escalating violence and significant civilian displacement, international concerns about a potential regional war grow, prompting calls for disarmament and accountability for the conflict’s root causes.
Rwandan-supported M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city, by taking control of the regional governor’s office. Upon their arrival, many residents lined the streets to cheer the fighters as they entered unopposed. This event marks the second major city, following Goma, to fall under rebel control in recent weeks within the mineral-rich region. In response, the Congolese government has urged citizens to remain indoors to avoid conflict with the occupying forces.
The United Nations and European nations have issued warnings about the potential for broader regional conflict resulting from this recent surge of violence, which has displaced hundreds of thousands. A local resident, speaking anonymously due to safety concerns, remarked on widespread fear within the community, stating, “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting.” She noted that the recognition of the M23 forces by locals might stem from fear rather than genuine support.
This recent takeover began after the M23 captured Bukavu’s main airport, located about 30 kilometers north of the city, before systematically advancing towards the urban center. Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, the provincial governor, confirmed that Congolese troops had pulled back from the city to prevent urban combat, leaving a security vacuum. Reports of chaos ensued, including a prison break and looting incidents, notably a WFP warehouse containing 7,000 tonnes of food.
Bukavu, a city of approximately two million people, is strategically positioned near Rwanda and serves as a vital hub for local mineral trade. The rebels’ gradual takeover represents a significant territorial gain since their insurgency commenced in late 2021, posing a serious challenge to President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya accused Rwanda of expanding its territorial claims through military aggression and human rights violations.
President Tshisekedi has called for sanctions against Rwandan President Paul Kagame in response to the current unrest, but Kagame has dismissed such threats, emphasizing Rwanda’s security concerns above all. He remains frustrated with the Congolese government’s perceived inability to handle the FLDR rebel group, which Rwanda views as a threat, comprising individuals from the ethnic Hutu militia blamed for the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
M23 troops were seen gathering at the Place de l’Indépendance, where Commander Bernard Byamungu interacted with residents and urged the government’s forces to surrender. He accused these troops of inciting fear and instigating chaos by providing arms to the local youth, which resulted in rampant looting. The African Union has reiterated its demand for the disarmament of M23, citing significant concerns regarding the risk of an uncontested regional war.
In summary, the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have captured Bukavu, marking a significant escalation in ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. This has led to widespread violence and displacement among civilians. The Congolese government has urged residents to stay indoors, fearing retaliatory actions, while international bodies express concerns over regional instability. Amid diplomatic tensions, calls for disarmament and accountability continue to rise as the situation unfolds.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
