Rwandan-Backed M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu, Escalating Conflict in DR Congo
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DR Congo, leading to public celebrations amid fears of violence. The Congolese government has urged residents to stay indoors, recognizing the city’s loss. The UN warns of a potential wider regional conflict as hundreds of thousands are displaced, and the situation escalates with looting and chaos reported in the city.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, capturing the regional governor’s office amidst minimal resistance. Celebratory crowds welcomed the fighters into the city, which follows the recent fall of Goma to the same group. The Congolese government has acknowledged this loss, advising residents to remain indoors to avoid confrontation with the occupying forces.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread displacement, with the United Nations and European nations warning that the situation could escalate into a broader regional conflict. Much of the civilian population in Bukavu is remaining indoors, fearful of the violence, as one anonymous resident recounted, “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting.”
The M23 rebels captured the main airport near Bukavu prior to moving into the city, prompting Congolese military forces to retreat to prevent urban combat. This power shift has led to chaotic scenes, including a reported prison break and the looting of food supplies from the UN’s World Food Programme’s warehouse. Bukavu, which is vital for mineral trade and borders Rwanda, has witnessed an alarming territorial surge for the M23 since their resurgence in late 2021, a significant setback for President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration.
Patrick Muyaya, the government spokesperson, accused Rwanda of infringing upon the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo through territorial aggression, charging that foreign troops exacerbate regional instability for mineral gain—allegations that Rwanda consistently denies. President Tshisekedi has called for international sanctions against Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who has dismissed such threats, insisting that Rwanda’s primary concern is its national security.
President Kagame has voiced his frustration with what he perceives as the Congolese government’s failures to manage the FDLR rebel faction, which he regards as a credible threat due to its ties to the genocide in Rwanda in 1994. On the ground in Bukavu, M23 commander Bernard Byamungu has rallied local populations, urging surrender of retreating Congolese military personnel and denouncing their alleged facilitation of local violence and looting.
The African Union has reiterated its concern over the potential for regional warfare, with peace and security commissioner Bankole Adeo stressing the urgent need for the M23 to disarm. This ongoing dynamic in eastern Congo illustrates the complex interplay of power, fear, and external influence within the region, as the international community keenly observes these developments.
In summary, the situation in Bukavu represents a significant escalation in the conflict initiated by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels, who have successfully taken over the city, instilling fear among residents amidst allegations of looting. The international community is increasingly alarmed by these developments, with calls for disarmament and potential sanctions against Rwanda. The volatile scenario not only threatens the stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo but also poses a risk for wider regional conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
