M23 Rebels Capture Strategic City Bukavu in DR Congo

M23 rebels have entered Bukavu, DR Congo’s strategic city, following their advance from Goma. The Congolese governor confirmed their presence, with reports of chaos and looting. Many residents showed support for the rebels, while concerns grow regarding human rights violations and territorial integrity as Rwanda continues to be implicated in the conflict. The situation is discussed at an ongoing African Union summit.

The M23 rebels have reportedly entered Bukavu, a strategic city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to Jean-Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province. He confirmed that Congolese troops withdrew to avoid urban conflict, allowing the rebels to advance after their earlier capture of Goma. This marks a significant territorial expansion for the M23 since the onset of their rebellion in 2022.

The Congolese government acknowledged the rebels’ presence in Bukavu, noting that Rwandan military forces were also in the city, although it did not claim that M23 had taken full control. The government described Rwanda’s actions as part of a broader agenda of occupation and human rights violations in the DRC, stating, “Rwanda is stubbornly pursuing its plan to occupy, pillage and commit crimes.”

As the situation unfolded, numerous eyewitnesses and a spokesperson for M23 confirmed the group’s presence in the city. According to Al Jazeera’s Alain Uaykani, a senior M23 commander was actively engaging with residents, asserting M23’s control and stating that Congolese soldiers had fled the area. In the early moments following the rebels’ arrival, Bukavu experienced chaotic scenes, marked by looting and widespread panic among civilians.

Some residents, however, expressed their support for the M23 forces, chanting in favor of change and job opportunities. Earlier, M23 had also secured Kavumu Airport, the final military barrier before reaching the city, with little resistance anticipated. The ongoing unrest aligns with discussions at an African Union summit in Ethiopia, where the DRC’s territorial integrity and the necessity for de-escalation were emphasized by UN officials.

The incursion of M23 rebels into Bukavu signifies a troubling escalation in the ongoing conflict within the DRC. With Rwandan support, the rebels have expanded their control, prompting concerns over human rights violations and territorial sovereignty. The unrest has resulted in significant civilian displacement and chaos, while the international community debates effective responses to restore stability. There is an urgent need for dialogue and peace processes to address these escalating tensions.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com