M23 Rebels Advance into Bukavu, Escalating DRC Conflict

Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have rapidly advanced into Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, following their earlier takeover of Goma. Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed their presence, while Congolese forces withdrew to avoid urban combat. Despite reports of chaos, some residents welcomed the rebels, expressing desires for change. The situation raises significant humanitarian concerns as over six million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.

The M23 rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, have made significant strides in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), entering Bukavu, the region’s second-largest city. South Kivu’s governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi, confirmed their presence, stating that Congolese forces withdrew to prevent urban combat. This advancement follows the capture of Goma earlier this year and indicates the rebels’ substantial territorial gains since the conflict escalated in 2022.

In a statement, the Congolese government acknowledged that M23 rebels were in Bukavu, claiming that Rwandan troops accompanied them but stopped short of declaring the city fully under rebel control. The government’s assertion highlighted Rwanda’s alleged plans of occupation and abuse of human rights on Congolese territory, stating that “Rwanda is stubbornly pursuing its plan to occupy, pillage and commit crimes and serious human rights violations on our soil”.

Local officials and multiple witnesses confirmed the rebels’ sighting within the city, with M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma declaring, “We are there”. Observations indicated the senior commander of the rebels was actively engaging with residents, attempting to reassure them of the new governance following the retreat of DRC’s army. Amid initial chaos and looting, a sense of calm reportedly began to return as the rebels conducted their presence in Bukavu.

The chaos led to a tragic incident, as indicated by Bukavu resident Claude Bisimwa, who described transporting the bodies of two individuals killed by gunfire in their homes. He stated, “These were not stray bullets – the soldier did this out of his own will.” Notably, despite the circumstances, reports surfaced of residents cheering the M23 rebels, expressing a desire for change in the face of their presence.

The rebels recently overtook Kavumu Airport, having encountered minimal resistance, marking their final barrier before gaining access to Bukavu, a major urban center with a population exceeding one million. The developments in the DRC coincided with discussions at an African Union summit in Ethiopia, where the need to preserve the country’s territorial integrity was emphasized, with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres advocating against regional escalation.

The United Kingdom condemned the incursion of M23 and Rwandan forces as a violation of DRC sovereignty, urging for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic dialogue. The AU faced criticism for its lack of decisive action in response to the unfolding crisis. Meanwhile, Rwanda has denied these allegations of military support for M23, blaming DRC-based Hutu groups for security threats to its territory, despite past reports indicating Rwandan soldiers’ involvement in the conflict.

The M23 insurgency represents one facet of the troubling landscape of over 100 armed groups vying for control in the DRC’s mineral-rich eastern regions. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate as displacement figures exceed six million, with the recent M23 advances resulting in at least 350,000 people rendered homeless since the seizure of Goma.

In conclusion, the M23 rebels’ occupation of Bukavu highlights a troubling escalation in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, exacerbated by foreign involvement and humanitarian crises. The situation underscores the need for urgent diplomatic intervention and a comprehensive approach to restoring stability and addressing human rights concerns in the region. As the rebels extend their control, international dialogue becomes increasingly critical to reversing these developments and safeguarding the DRC’s sovereignty.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com