M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have advanced into Bukavu, DRC’s second largest city. Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed troops retreated to avoid conflict. This marks a significant territorial gain since their capture of Goma. Observers reported both panic and support among residents as the rebels seek control amidst ongoing violence and humanitarian crises.
The M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have swiftly advanced into Bukavu, the second largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Jean-Jacques Purusi, the governor of South Kivu province, confirmed this development, stating that Congolese troops opted to retreat to avoid urban conflict. This incursion marks a significant territorial gain for the M23 since the initiation of this latest rebellion in 2022, following their capture of Goma in January.
The Congolese government acknowledged that M23 rebels had infiltrated Bukavu and that Rwandan forces were accompanying them. However, officials did not confirm that the entire city had fallen under M23 control. The government condemned Rwanda’s actions, asserting it seeks to “occupy, pillage and commit crimes and serious human rights violations on our soil.” Witnesses and local officials reported observing the presence of M23 rebels in the city.
M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma confirmed their presence in Bukavu and noted active engagement with the local populace. Al Jazeera’s Alain Uaykani reported that a senior M23 commander was actively communicating with residents, asserting that the DRC army had fled. While chaos ensued in the city the previous day, a growing sense of calm appeared to emerge as the rebels consolidated control, despite reports of looting and panic among residents.
There have been instances of violence, as recounted by residents who described men being killed in their homes. Conversely, some residents appeared to welcome the rebels, expressing their hope for change and jobs. As part of their advance, M23 secured control over Kavumu Airport with minimal resistance shortly before entering Bukavu.
This conflict escalates as leaders gather at an African Union summit to discuss the situation. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the need to avoid regional escalation and uphold the DRC’s territorial integrity. A representative of the United Kingdom Foreign Office called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces, emphasizing the necessity of dialogue through African-led peace initiatives.
Calls for more robust action have been made toward the African Union’s handling of the conflict, with Rwanda denying military support for M23 while also accusing armed groups in the DRC of threatening its security. A UN report previously indicated a significant Rwandan military presence in the DRC, with the M23 being one of over 100 armed factions vying for control in the region. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over six million individuals, exacerbating one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with significant implications for regional stability.
In conclusion, the entry of M23 rebels into Bukavu represents a troubling development in the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC. The situation raises serious concerns regarding human rights violations and regional instability. International and regional leaders are urged to take decisive actions to address the crisis and restore peace, emphasizing the need for dialogue and respect for the DRC’s sovereignty.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
