The M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, DRC, following a rapid advance, leading to a strategic retreat of Congolese troops. The DRC government has confirmed the rebels’ presence, criticizing Rwandan military involvement. Amidst the turmoil, civilian reactions have varied, and the situation continues to escalate, prompting international concern and calls for dialogue.
The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as confirmed by South Kivu’s governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi. This incursion follows their recent capture of Goma and marks a significant territorial gain for the rebel group since their resurgence in 2022. Congolese troops have strategically retreated to prevent urban combat, according to local officials.
The DRC government acknowledged the presence of M23 in Bukavu, noting the involvement of Rwandan troops but refrained from stating that the entire city was under their control. The government criticized Rwanda’s actions, framing them as an attempt to occupy and perpetrate human rights abuses in Congolese territory. Reports from local officials and witnesses have affirmed the rebels’ activities within the city.
M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma confirmed the rebel group’s presence, highlighting interactions between their senior commander and local residents. Despite initial panic and chaos, including looting and civilian casualties reported byBukavu resident Claude Bisimwa, a sense of calm has reportedly begun to settle in the area.
The rebels recently took control of Kavumu Airport, previously a critical military checkpoint before reaching Bukavu, encountering little resistance along their advance. This escalating situation occurs amidst ongoing discussions at an African Union (AU) summit in Ethiopia, wherein regional stability remains a priority. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the necessity to maintain the DRC’s territorial integrity.
The UK government has condemned the entrance of M23 and the Rwandan Defence Force into Bukavu, deeming it a violation of DRC sovereignty and seeking an immediate cessation of hostilities. There are calls for an African-led peace process, as the AU faces scrutiny for its passive stance on the ongoing conflict.
Rwanda denies supporting the M23, citing security threats from armed groups in the DRC. However, United Nations experts have indicated that Rwandan military personnel maintain a presence within the DRC, facilitating M23 operations. With over 100 armed factions competing for control in the resource-rich eastern region, the conflict has resulted in the displacement of over six million people, exacerbating one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.
The M23 rebels’ advance into Bukavu, bolstered by Rwandan support, has prompted significant concerns regarding the DRC’s sovereignty and civilian safety. The Congolese government is calling for international support to restore order and protect human rights. The situation underscores the complexities of regional geopolitics and the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
