M23 Rebels Advance into Bukavu: A Turning Point in DRC’s Ongoing Conflict

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have advanced into Bukavu, the second largest city in eastern DRC, following their capture of Goma. Congolese forces have retreated to prevent urban conflict as the rebels sought to solidify control and engage local populations. The situation has escalated tensions and raised concerns over regional stability amid an ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have successfully entered Bukavu, the second largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following an aggressive territorial advance confirmed by South Kivu’s governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi. He noted that in light of the situation, Congolese forces retreated to prevent urban conflicts. The conflict escalated after the rebels captured Goma, marking Bukavu’s significant territorial loss since the violence erupted in 2022.

The DRC government acknowledged the presence of the M23 in Bukavu and indicated that Rwandan troops accompanied the rebels. However, they did not state that the entire city was now under rebel control. In their statement, Congolese authorities accused Rwanda of pursuing a plan to occupy and exploit DRC’s resources while committing serious human rights violations.

Witness reports from local officials, security sources, and civilians confirm the rebels’ presence in Bukavu. M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma asserted, “We are there,” indicating their control over key areas in the city. A senior commander of the M23 was actively engaging with residents, asserting that the DRC army had retreated.

The situation in Bukavu had earlier been chaotic, with numerous reports of looting and panic among residents. Thousands fled the city amidst the turmoil, while some areas, including a World Food Programme depot, were targeted by looters. There have also been tragic reports of civilian casualties resulting from the violence.

Despite initial fears, some Bukavu residents cheered for the M23 rebels, expressing a desire for change and better prospects. A day prior, the rebels had seized Kavumu Airport, which had previously posed a military barrier to their advance. This capture allowed the M23 rebels to reach Bukavu with minimal resistance.

This development occurs against the backdrop of an ongoing African Union summit in Ethiopia, where DRC’s conflict is a significant topic. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the importance of avoiding a regional escalation, reiterating the need to uphold the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The UK government condemned the entrance of M23 and the Rwandan Defence Force into Bukavu, declaring it a violation of DRC’s sovereignty. They called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged for dialogue led by African nations. Observers have criticized the African Union for a lack of decisive action in resolving the ongoing crisis.

While Rwanda denies its military support for M23, a recent UN report suggests that Rwanda maintains troops in the DRC and exerts control over the rebel group. The M23 is one of over 100 armed groups vying for power in the DRC’s resource-rich eastern regions. The conflict has led to the displacement of more than six million people, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis.

The M23 rebels’ entrance into Bukavu signifies a significant turn in the ongoing conflict in the DRC, highlighting regional tensions and the implications of external support. The humanitarian crisis remains critical, with millions displaced and in need of assistance. Continued international attention and robust efforts are required to address the violence and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict in the region.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com