M23 Rebels Consolidate Control Over Bukavu Amid Rising Tensions
M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, following their previous capture of Goma. The conflict has displaced millions, with residents experiencing fear and uncertainty. Protests in Goma demand the departure of U.N. forces and express dissatisfaction with President Tshisekedi as the humanitarian crisis deepens.
On Monday, M23 rebels intensified their control over Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, a day after taking the city, which has a population of 1.3 million. This operation follows their earlier capture of Goma in late January. Bukavu is located 101 kilometers south of Goma, and residents of the city now appear to accept their new circumstances under the rebel governance.
The M23 is a prominent faction among over 100 armed groups competing for the vast mineral resources of eastern Congo. The group reportedly receives support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, as confirmed by United Nations experts. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over 6 million individuals, leading to a significant humanitarian crisis in the region.
As rebels entered Bukavu, many residents attempted to flee the city, while others looted stores, taking any supplies they could find. Following the rebels’ arrival, a somber atmosphere enveloped the streets as locals braced for life under M23 rule. On Monday morning, some residents cautiously resumed their daily routines despite lingering fears of insecurity.
Border crossings between Bukavu and Rwanda were halted on Monday, and most businesses remained closed. Gradually, traffic began to return, but apprehension persisted among the populace. As resident David Munyaga stated, “Now we thank God that the situation is OK, even if we don’t know what’s coming. Whatever happens, we will live with it.”
Rebel-appointed governor Erasto Bahati Musanga announced that the ports of Goma and Bukavu would reopen on Tuesday, ending a ban on navigation in Lake Kivu that had been in effect since the beginning of the rebels’ offensive. In Goma, protests called for the withdrawal of U.N. peacekeeping forces and local troops, with demonstrators expressing frustration over the political situation in Congo.
Protesters gathered outside the MONUSCO headquarters, expressing their discontent about the ongoing conflict and calling for political change. Bauma Sukali, a protester, articulated the sentiment, stating, “The war does not end in Congo, why? They have nothing to do here, they should leave.” Another protester, Fiston Nsabimana, urged for President Tshisekedi to resign due to his inability to maintain peace.
The M23 rebels have established a firmer hold on Bukavu following their recent territorial gains, compounded by significant humanitarian concerns due to prolonged conflict in eastern Congo. Local residents face an uncertain future while protests in Goma reflect a growing dissatisfaction with the current governance. As the situation evolves, the complexities of regional power dynamics and global implications for Congolese resources remain pressing issues.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
