M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu, Escalating Crisis in DRC

M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have seized Bukavu in the DRC, leading to widespread chaos and fears of a larger conflict. The Congolese government has acknowledged the city’s fall and urged residents to remain indoors amidst the violence. The situation has drawn international attention, with calls for the rebels to disarm and concern over potential regional war.

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have overtaken Bukavu, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city, capturing the regional governor’s office. Residents welcomed the fighters into the city center largely without resistance, after Goma fell to them weeks prior. In light of this, the Congolese government has urged citizens to remain indoors to avoid risks from the insurgents.

The UN and European nations have expressed concern that the escalating conflict may ignite a larger regional war, as it has displaced hundreds of thousands. A local resident, wishing to remain unnamed due to safety concerns, reported widespread fear among the populace. “Since yesterday the children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting,” she disclosed.

The M23’s incursion began with their capture of Bukavu’s primary airport, situated approximately 30 kilometers north of the city, advancing slowly toward the city center, the capital of South-Kivu province. Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, the provincial governor, confirmed the M23’s presence in Bukavu by Sunday morning, stating that Congolese troops retreated to prevent urban combat, thereby creating a security void.

This invasion resulted in chaotic conditions within the city, including a reported prison escape. The UN’s World Food Programme noted that a warehouse containing nearly 7,000 tonnes of food was looted. Bukavu, with approximately two million inhabitants and significant mineral trade routes, faces an unprecedented territorial loss, marking a significant setback for President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration.

The Congolese government accused Rwanda of violating its sovereignty, alleging that Kigali is utilizing the unrest for its expansionist aspirations and human rights violations. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya condemned Rwanda’s actions, while President Tshisekedi called for international sanctions against his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame. However, Kagame has dismissed these threats, emphasizing Rwanda’s commitments to its national security.

President Kagame has criticized the Congolese authorities for failing to contain the FLDR rebel group, which he perceives as a grave threat. Meanwhile, M23’s commander, Bernard Byamungu, encouraged government forces to surrender and suggested that government troops were the cause of terror by arming local youths.

The African Union has reiterated its calls for the M23 to disarm amidst growing fears of regional warfare, as its peace and security commissioner, Bankole Adeo, commented on the escalating situation during a summit in Ethiopia.

The recent capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels underscores the deterioration of security in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and raises alarm over the potential for wider conflict in the region. The government faces increasing challenges as Rwanda is accused of backing the insurgents. Consequently, the international community is urged to take notice and address the ongoing crisis, which is exacerbating humanitarian concerns and regional stability.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk