M23 rebels backed by Rwanda have captured Bukavu, DRC’s second-largest city, following their takeover of Goma. The Congolese government is monitoring the situation, while local residents express feelings of abandonment by authorities. The escalation of conflict risks a regional war as humanitarian crises worsen.
The M23 rebels, a militia allegedly backed by Rwanda, have successfully seized Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This development follows their recent takeover of Goma, capital of North Kivu, as the Congolese government confirms the ongoing unrest and the presence of Rwandan forces in the region.
In response to the occupation, the DRC communications ministry has stated that it is actively monitoring the situation whilst taking measures to restore order, security, and territorial integrity.
Local residents like Blaise Byamungu voice frustration over governmental inaction during this crisis, expressing feelings of abandonment by authorities.
M23 leader Bernard Byamungu addressed supporters at the governor’s office, indicating plans to establish a new order by eliminating the chaos left by prior governance. He described the living conditions in Bukavu as akin to a “jungle.”
M23 represents one of over 100 armed groups complicating the conflict in eastern DRC, claiming its mission is to protect the Congolese Tutsi and other minorities from Hutu groups. Accusations from the DRC and international parties indicate that the Rwandan government supports M23, which Rwanda has denied.
The recent capture of Bukavu signifies a significant territorial gain for M23 and poses a risk of escalating the local conflict into a broader regional warfare scenario.
The ongoing violence has exacerbated the humanitarian situation, with significant destruction of emergency shelters around Goma, leaving many internally displaced residents vulnerable.
Representatives from the Congo River Alliance, comprising various militia groups including M23, have pledged to defend the residents of Bukavu, advising locals to remain calm amidst the chaos.
The DRC government has similarly urged residents of Bukavu to stay indoors for their safety, aiming to protect them from potential aggression by the occupying forces.
The capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, intensifies the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. The governmental response, local frustrations, and the potential for a wider regional conflict underscore the gravity of the current humanitarian crisis. Amidst this turmoil, both the rebels and the government are calling for calm among the population as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
