M23 Rebels Capture Bukavu, Raising Concerns Over Regional Stability
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, DR Congo’s second-largest city, following their earlier capture of Goma. The local government has advised residents to stay indoors amidst fears of violence and looting. The situation raises concerns about regional instability as the Congolese government accuses Rwanda of complicity in the unrest. International bodies are worried about escalating conflict in the region.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s second-largest city. They seized the regional governor’s office and entered the city center without facing significant opposition, as some locals reportedly welcomed them with cheers. This capture follows the recent takeover of Goma, highlighting the rebels’ growing influence in the mineral-rich eastern region of the country. The Congolese government has acknowledged the situation and advised citizens to remain indoors to avoid confrontations with the rebels.
Local residents expressed their fear following the M23’s arrival. One anonymous Bukavu inhabitant shared that gunfire continues to ring out while looting has become prevalent. She noted, “The children and the youth took the weapons. They are shooting everywhere in all directions, they are looting.” Other reports indicated that the provincial governor confirmed M23’s presence in the city, mentioning that Congolese forces had withdrawn to prevent urban conflict.
The M23’s capture of Bukavu is a significant territorial expansion since their insurgency began in late 2021, complicating President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration. The UN World Food Programme indicated looting of a warehouse containing substantial food supplies during the chaos. The city, which has a population of approximately two million, is crucial for regional mineral trade and borders Rwanda.
Congolese officials claim Rwanda is instigating disorder in the region by facilitating the M23’s advances. Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya criticized Rwanda’s actions as violations of Congolese sovereignty, attributing regional chaos to Rwandan ambitions for local resources. Amidst these tensions, President Tshisekedi has called for sanctions against President Kagame of Rwanda, though Kagame has dismissed such threats, emphasizing Rwanda’s security concerns.
Troops from the M23 were observed in Bukavu’s central locations, with their commander encouraging local forces to surrender. He alleged that the fleeing military incited disorder among the youth. Furthermore, the African Union called for the disarmament of the M23 as the threat of broader regional conflict looms. The AU’s commissioner expressed serious concerns about the situation escalating into violence across borders.
The situation in Bukavu is a critical development in the ongoing conflict involving Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. Their control of the city signifies a troubling trend that poses significant risks for local stability and international relations in the region. The Congolese government’s appeals for civilians to remain safe highlight the urgency of the crisis, while calls from international bodies may reflect growing concern over the potential for wider conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
