M23 rebels have seized Bukavu’s airport in the DRC as they advance closer to the city, amidst international ceasefire appeals. The conflict has led to significant civilian displacement. Rwanda’s backing of the rebels complicates the situation, prompting calls for diplomatic resolutions at an upcoming AU summit.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), M23 rebels have successfully captured the airport serving the critical city of Bukavu amidst their ongoing military advance. This escalation occurs despite widespread international appeals for a ceasefire and an urgent resumption of peace negotiations. The rebel offensive has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of individuals in recent weeks, highlighting the urgent humanitarian crisis.
Last month, the M23, reportedly supported by neighboring Rwanda, also seized Goma, another vital city in the eastern region known for its mineral wealth. During the recent confrontation for the airport located in Kavumu, the Congolese army and its allied militias appeared to withdraw with minimal resistance.
Currently, the M23 rebels are positioned only 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. Local officials, including Deputy Governor Jean Elekano, confirmed to the BBC that intense fighting has been reported on the outskirts of the city. Despite the turmoil, Elekano stated that the Congolese forces remain engaged in combat and control the situation at present.
Residents in Bukavu have expressed heightened levels of panic and fear regarding the approaching conflict. Authorities are advising the populace to stay indoors as a precautionary measure. This troubling advancement in hostilities coincides with the scheduled African Union (AU) summit where continental leaders are expected to convene.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the head of the AU commission, emphasized the necessity of adhering to a ceasefire, asserting that military actions are ineffective in resolving such conflicts. He expressed hope for a collective African response to enforce peace in the region. Rwanda, accused of supporting the M23 militia, maintains its stance of innocence, asserting that its presence is to ensure national security against potential threats from Hutu rebels in Congo, dismissing sanctions as a possibility.
In retaliation, the Congolese government has made allegations against Rwanda for illegally annexing valuable territories within the DRC. This pattern of conflict underscores the ongoing instability in the region and the pressing need for an effective diplomatic resolution.
The conflict in the DRC, particularly involving M23 rebels, has escalated significantly with alarming repercussions for civilian populations. The capture of the airport serving Bukavu heightens regional tensions, prompting urgent calls for ceasefire and negotiations. Rwanda’s alleged involvement further complicates the situation, underscoring the necessity for a coordinated effort from African nations to restore peace and stability. The reports of increased violence and displacement amidst international diplomatic efforts reflect the complex nature of the crisis in eastern Congo, necessitating immediate humanitarian attention and conflict resolution measures.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
