M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu, Escalating Conflict in DR Congo

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, the second-largest city in DR Congo, following their prior capture of Goma. The Congolese government has recognized the loss and advised residents to remain at home amid escalating violence. The situation poses risks for regional stability and humanitarian crises, leading to international concerns about security and human rights abuses.

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city, following their recent capture of Goma. The rebels seized the regional governor’s office with minimal resistance, while some residents cheered their arrival. The Congolese government has acknowledged the loss and urged citizens to remain indoors to avoid conflict with the occupying forces.

The United Nations and European nations have issued warnings regarding the potential escalation of violence, as hundreds of thousands have been displaced by the ongoing conflict. A Bukavu resident reported widespread fear among the populace, with armed youths causing chaos and looting. A prison break was also reported as the situation deteriorated amid the rebels’ advance.

The M23 captured Bukavu’s main airport north of the city and moved towards the city center, prompting Congolese troops to withdraw to prevent urban combat. The subsequent vacuum has led to disorder, with significant looting, including that of UN World Food Programme supplies. Bukavu, located near Rwanda and vital for mineral trade, represents a significant territorial gain for the M23 since their resurgence in late 2021.

The Congolese government condemned Rwanda’s actions, claiming violations of territorial integrity and human rights abuses. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya asserted that Rwanda fosters chaos to exploit Congo’s resources, which Rwanda denies. President Félix Tshisekedi is advocating for sanctions against Rwandan leadership, while President Paul Kagame maintains that Rwanda prioritizes its national security in the face of internal threats from the FLDR group, associated with the 1994 genocide.

In Bukavu, M23 troops gathered at Place de l’Indépendance, where their commander Bernard Byamungu engaged with locals, urging the remaining government troops to surrender peacefully. The African Union has reiterated calls for the M23 to disarm, amidst rising concerns about a wider regional conflict due to the situation in DR Congo.

In summary, the capture of Bukavu by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels signifies a troubling escalation in the ongoing conflict within the Democratic Republic of Congo. The situation has resulted in significant displacement and disorder, prompting international concerns about regional stability and human rights violations. With external actors involved and the Congolese government under strain, the potential for further escalation remains high.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk