M23 Rebels Vow to Restore Security in Bukavu Amid Ongoing Conflict

M23 rebels have pledged to restore security in Bukavu after swiftly seizing control of the city. Many residents have fled, while others tentatively embrace the new authorities. The situation raises concerns about regional stability, compounded by ongoing humanitarian issues and economic hardship for local businesses.

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have recently pledged to restore security in Bakavu, the second significant city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to be taken by them since late last month. After the M23 rebels captured the city with little resistance from the Congolese army, residents cautiously returned to the streets, hoping for stability. Thousands fled to neighboring Burundi, while others welcomed the M23 fighters as they entered Bukavu.

The M23, also known as the March 23 Movement, asserted that they would assist the citizens of Bukavu, whom they claimed were abandoned by the army. They stated, “Our forces have been working to restore the security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population.” Bukavu’s capture significantly impacts the authority of Kinshasa and raises concerns about a potential regional war.

Following their takeover of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, the M23 began advancing toward South Kivu. This progression has resulted in considerable fatalities, with reports indicating thousands have died due to the ongoing conflict between the M23 and the Congolese army. Erasto Bahati Musanga, the rebel-appointed governor of North Kivu, announced the reopening of ports in Bukavu and Goma, which had been closed due to the unrest.

However, despite the avoidance of mass violence in Bukavu, the city’s streets have suffered from neglect, with many areas littered with debris left by looters. Humanitarian supplies worth 7,000 tonnes were reported stolen from the United Nations World Food Programme’s warehouses over the weekend. The WFP condemned this theft, which jeopardizes the support intended for vulnerable families amid a growing humanitarian crisis.

Some residents like Pascal Zulu lament the harm inflicted on their businesses, expressing concern over repaying loans taken out to sustain their merchandise. Economic activities have commenced tentatively; some traders have resumed operations, although customer turnout remains low. Market sellers aim to revive their commercial endeavors to sustain their livelihoods amid ongoing instability in the region.

The M23 stands as a dominant force among over 100 armed groups competing for control of eastern Congo’s vast mineral resources. Reportedly, the rebels receive support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, a claim that Rwanda has denied despite allegations from the DRC, United Nations, and various Western powers.

In summary, the recent takeover of Bukavu by M23 rebels underscores the precarious security situation in eastern DRC, where humanitarian challenges are compounded by economic hardship and potential regional conflict. The rebel group’s assurances of restoring order come amidst significant violence and the theft of humanitarian aid resources. This ongoing struggle highlights the complex arena of power and control in a region rich in resources but fraught with instability.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com