M23 Rebels Take Control of Bukavu, Assure Security for Residents

M23 rebels have captured Bukavu in eastern DRC, vowing to restore security after the Congolese army’s retreat. Thousands have fled, while others remain. The rebels face accusations of regional support, further complicating the violence among over 100 armed groups competing for mineral wealth.

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the second significant city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Following their takeover, the rebels have declared their intention to restore security in the area, as fears of an escalating conflict in the region continue to grow. Residents have cautiously returned to the streets of Bukavu, where the local Congolese army showed little resistance during the takeover.

Following the takeover, thousands have fled to neighboring Burundi, while some residents welcomed the M23 fighters. Local radio broadcasts featured a statement from the rebel alliance affirming their commitment to assist the populace, stating they would restore security for those “abandoned” by the army. Bukavu, with a population of around 1.3 million, represents another significant loss for Kinshasa’s authority.

The M23, also known as the March 23 Movement, has been active in the eastern DRC, having gained control of various territories since their resurgence in late 2021. The recent capture of Bukavu follows their earlier control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, culminating in violent clashes that resulted in heavy casualties. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns of potential regional warfare.

Erasto Bahati Musanga, the newly appointed governor by the M23 in North Kivu, announced the reopening of ports in Bukavu and Goma, marking an easing of travel restrictions that had been imposed since the start of the rebel offensives. Despite a bloodbath being avoided in Bukavu, the city experienced widespread looting of stores and humanitarian warehouses amidst the chaos, resulting in significant losses.

The UN’s World Food Programme denounced the looting of its supplies in Bukavu, emphasizing that these provisions were vital for vulnerable families facing a dire humanitarian crisis. Local citizens expressed their distress over lost livelihoods due to the looting, with one shop owner lamenting the theft of his inventory, fearing how he will repay loans taken to procure merchandise.

Economic activity is gradually reviving in the city, with some markets beginning to reopen despite limited customer turnout. Traders are seeking to resume their businesses as a means of survival amidst the ongoing turmoil. The M23 remains the most prominent among over 100 armed groups competing for control over the eastern DRC’s rich mineral resources, allegedly supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops.

The situation in Bukavu reflects a significant power shift as M23 rebels seize control, promising to restore security amidst rising fears of larger regional conflicts. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, compounded by looting and economic instability. The international community watches closely as accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels add another layer of complexity to the ongoing turmoil in eastern DRC.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com