Panic in Bukavu as Rwanda-Backed Rebels Advance in Eastern Congo
Eastern Congo faces a crisis as M23 rebels supported by Rwanda advance towards Bukavu, causing mass panic and a significant civilian exodus. The chaotic scenes involve looting and violence as soldiers withdraw. International leaders call for ceasefires amid rising tensions, pointing to the complex challenges of resolving the ongoing conflict that threatens regional stability.
On Saturday, the eastern Congolese city of Bukavu experienced widespread panic as residents and soldiers fled, fearing the advancing Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The previous night, M23 fighters had reached the outskirts, prompting a massive exodus. Streets were chaotic with fleeing civilians and looters taking supplies, amidst an eerie silence as residents braced for uncertain times ahead. Although M23 had not fully captured Bukavu, their previous gains included the airport just outside the city.
Calmer conditions returned briefly after Congolese forces pulled back from the city. Bukavu resident Alexis Bisimwa noted, “We’re no longer waiting for the crackling of bullets as we were during the day,” indicating a temporary lull in violence. However, the aftermath was marked by shocking scenes of disorder, including burnt corpses and rampant looting as the vacuum left by withdrawing soldiers was exploited. “They set fire to the ammunition they were unable to take with them,” said Alain Iragi, a fleeing resident.
Reports indicated widespread pillaging of factories and looting in populated areas, while essential services remained functional. A local resident condemned the violence, stating that even some remaining soldiers were complicit in the looting. Lawrence Kanyuka of the Congo River Alliance urged the people to retain control and not succumb to panic, while the self-proclaimed governor, Pierre Bahizi, called for calm among residents to restore order.
M23, a dominant rebel faction with support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, is part of a larger conflict involving numerous rebel groups seeking control over eastern Congo’s resources. Their recent advances threaten the Congolese government’s stability. While French President Emmanuel Macron called for a ceasefire and a M23 withdrawal, the conflict has resulted in a death toll of nearly 3,000 and displaced hundreds of thousands.
The situation escalated on Friday when M23 claimed control of Bukavu’s airport, a crucial logistical site for Congolese forces and humanitarian efforts. Government responses to the escalating chaos included accusations against the rebels for violating ceasefires and inciting violence. Local military actions mirrored past events before M23’s previous capture of Goma, revealing ongoing challenges within the Congolese military.
The conflict’s potential regional implications were highlighted by U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres at the African Union summit, where he urged respect for Congo’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, a lack of unified strategy among African leaders leaves decisive action against M23 and Rwanda unaddressed. Despite calls for peace, tensions continue to rise, exemplified by Uganda’s military ultimatum against unidentified forces in its region, further complicating the conflict landscape.
The situation in eastern Congo remains critical as M23 rebels advance towards Bukavu, causing widespread panic and displacement among civilians. The chaos includes looting and violence as Congolese forces withdraw. International calls for a ceasefire highlight the urgency, but there is a lack of consensus on how to effectively address the conflict. The potential regional implications of continued violence pose a significant concern for stability in the area.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
