Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, marking their second major city takeover in the DRC. The rebels aim to restore order amidst the insecurity attributed to the previous regime. The Congolese government acknowledged the occupation and expressed efforts to return control. Local sentiments indicate frustration with governmental inaction, highlighting an ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
Recent developments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) indicate a worrying escalation in conflict, as M23 rebels have captured the city of Bukavu, marking their second significant territorial gain in the region. The Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, announced their involvement was aimed at addressing security issues under the prior government. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated their aim was to “assist the population of Bukavu” and revitalized order in the locality.
M23 spokesperson Bernard Maheshe Byamungu, previously sanctioned by the UN, claimed that residents had been living in chaos and asserted their commitment to restoring order. He stated, “We are going to clean up the disorder left over from the old regime.” The Congolese government acknowledged the occupation of Bukavu and reiterated their commitment to restoring stability in the region.
South Kivu’s Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi revealed that Congolese troops have retreated to mitigate risks to civilians in densely populated areas. He noted that M23 had already infiltrated his residence and office. This offensive followed the recent capture of Kavumu airport, a vital asset for the Congolese military, further solidifying M23’s control over strategic locations.
Local resident Blaise Byamungu remarked on the abandoned state of Bukavu’s authorities, expressing frustration over the perceived inaction of the government. He implied a lack of courage to respond as the rebels advanced, stating, “Is the government waiting for them to take over other towns to take action? It’s cowardice.”
The M23 group, also known as the March 23 Movement, has expanded its territorial ambitions since reclaiming Goma, the eastern DRC’s largest city. Despite their stated intentions for a ceasefire, Kanyuka previously stated no desire to capture additional territories. Due to the ongoing violence, over six million individuals in the region have been displaced, creating a severe humanitarian crisis, as reported by the UN.
The M23 rebels reportedly receive backing from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, a significant increase from their previous level of support in 2012. Rwanda’s government, while denying these allegations, frames the conflict as essential to protect ethnic Tutsis from threats posed by ethnic Hutu groups connected to past genocides. Historically, this area has been a site of extensive violence, with around 800,000 Tutsis and other innocent civilians killed as a result of the conflict during the genocide in 1994.
The capture of Bukavu by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels highlights an escalating humanitarian crisis in the DRC, with over six million displaced due to conflict. Local authorities have been reported as absent, leading to frustrations among residents. Rwanda’s involvement further complicates the situation, as the conflict continues to draw international concern regarding its implications for regional stability. Governments and human rights organizations are urged to respond effectively to this developing crisis.
Original Source: news.sky.com
