M23 Expands Recruitment in Bukavu Amidst Ongoing Conflict and Violence

The M23 rebel group is significantly expanding its recruitment in Bukavu with transparency, following violent incidents that have claimed lives. The group has integrated defected soldiers from the Congolese army and continues to position itself against perceived poor governance. Accusations against the Burundian army concerning recent attacks highlight escalating tensions, while international calls for dialogue seek to address the root causes of this ongoing instability in the region.

The M23 rebel group is actively recruiting in Bukavu, emphasizing transparency in their process. Rebel spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated that all recruits are adult volunteers. Following a recent deadly attack that killed 13 people during a rebel rally, the movement has gained significant public interest, with many young individuals encouraged to register for service. A video shared by Kanyuka captures the moment when a large crowd responded to a call from Gen. Bernard Byamungu, urging youth to participate in the fight against what they characterize as poor governance.

The M23 has also taken in Congolese government soldiers who have defected. Just days ago, over 2,100 police officers and 890 soldiers joined the rebel ranks, marking a significant increase in their manpower. This occurred shortly after the rebels had captured the city of Goma. The M23 asserts that these actions are aimed at establishing a governance system that respects human rights and addresses the root causes of conflict in the region.

In reaction to a terrorist attack in Bukavu, senior rebel leader Bertrand Bisimwa accused the Burundian army of involvement, claiming that explosives used in the attack could be traced to them. This allegation follows a long-standing presence of Burundian troops supporting the Congolese army against the M23. The conflict has drawn in various military alliances, including local militias and foreign mercenaries.

Efforts for peace have been made, with a joint EAC-SADC meeting earlier in February calling for an end to hostilities and a new dialogue regarding the growing insecurity in eastern DR Congo. Despite this, the situation continues to worsen, as the M23 has captured key locations like Kavumu airport and subsequently Bukavu, responding to local residents’ calls for stability.

Amid the failures of the Congolese army, international bodies have been urged to focus on the foundational issues driving the conflict, particularly regarding rising ethnic tensions and the systemic issues affecting Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese communities. Rwandan officials stress that their country is often scapegoated in this conflict, which they describe as fundamentally an ethnic struggle, calling for the international community to take a more serious approach to the underlying causes of the unrest.

The M23 is continuing its recruitment efforts in Bukavu amid escalating violence and conflict dynamics in the region. As they integrate additional forces, including defected soldiers, the movement portrays itself as a legitimate alternative to current governance. The international community faces pressure to address the complex, underlying issues driving the conflict in eastern DR Congo, emphasizing the need for dialogue and a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing crisis.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw