M23 Rebels Seize Control of Bukavu as Tensions Escalate in Eastern Congo
M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have captured Bukavu, a major city in eastern Congo. The situation follows Goma’s earlier capture and impacts millions displaced by ongoing conflict. Local residents express fear under the new regime, while protests against U.N. forces highlight regional tensions. Calls for international intervention arise amid escalating violence.
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have increased their control over Bukavu, a significant city in eastern Congo, after capturing it onSunday. The city, home to approximately 1.3 million residents, was left vulnerable when Congolese forces withdrew. Bukavu, located 63 miles south of Goma, had previously also fallen to rebel forces earlier this year.
The M23 group is a prominent faction among over 100 armed groups competing for access to eastern Congo’s vast mineral resources, crucial for global technology supply chains. Reports indicate that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops are supporting the rebels, according to United Nations experts. The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of over 6 million individuals, marking it as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.
As the M23 rebels entered Bukavu, local residents attempted to flee, while some engaged in looting. Initial reactions included a prevailing silence as the populace prepared for the new regime’s arrival. By Monday morning, activity gradually resumed, but tension lingered with the rebels maintaining a visible presence at key intersections.
Shopkeeper David Balezi expressed concerns about ongoing insecurity, stating, “People are still scared to go out because of the insecurity so it’s not business as usual yet.” Bukavu’s border crossing to Rwanda was closed, and many businesses remained shuttered. Despite the uncertain situation, resident David Munyaga remarked, “Now we thank God that the situation is OK, even if we don’t know what’s coming.”
In Goma, which remains under rebel control, demonstrators protested against the U.N. peacekeeping force, MONUSCO, and called for the departure of regional military presence. A sit-in at MONUSCO headquarters saw protesters demanding President Felix Tshisekedi’s resignation, voicing grievances against ongoing violence. Protester Bauma Sukali stated, “The war does not end in Congo why? They have nothing to do here, they should leave.”
Internationally, the M23’s advances may elicit closer scrutiny. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an urgent ceasefire, M23’s withdrawal, and the reinstatement of Congolese authorities in Bukavu. The situation remains fluid as local and international actors monitor developments closely.
The takeover of Bukavu by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels highlights the escalating conflict in eastern Congo, which has significant humanitarian implications. With local residents expressing fear and uncertainty about their future, international attention is likely to intensify, particularly in response to calls for military withdrawal and the need for stability in the region. The situation evolves as protests in Goma indicate growing dissatisfaction with current governance.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
