Rwanda-Backed Rebels Advance on Bukavu, Sparking Panic and Displacement
Eastern Congo faces heightened unrest as Rwanda-backed rebels advance, prompting mass evacuations from Bukavu. Reports describe looting amidst a temporary ceasefire, with calls for order from local leaders. The ongoing conflict has caused 3,000 deaths and 350,000 displaced residents. International attention is drawn to the escalating violence and its potential regional implications.
Panic has gripped Bukavu, Congo’s second-largest city, as thousands attempt to flee amidst the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Following the rebels’ entry to the city’s outskirts, many residents rushed to escape, while looters took advantage of the chaos. Witnesses reported seeing bodies burnt in the streets and described the unsettling silence that fell over the area as remaining residents braced for impending events.
Despite the chaos, as of Saturday, M23 rebels had not fully seized control of Bukavu. Initial successes, including the capture of an airport near the city, were followed by a temporary ceasefire as gunfire subsided. A local resident noted, “We’re no longer waiting for the crackling of bullets as we were during the day,” indicating a momentary lull amid the tensions.
Alarming reports emerged of looting and lawlessness burgeoning in the absence of Congolese troops, who had withdrawn from the area. One resident recounted that looters were burning ammunition left behind. The situation has descended into disorder, with residents fearing for their safety as some soldiers are also implicated in the looting incidents.
The Congo River Alliance, comprising several rebel groups, including M23, has criticized the Congolese military for the current instability in Bukavu. Spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka urged citizens to maintain order in their city despite the panic. Meanwhile, the self-proclaimed governor Pierre Bahizi called for residents to organize against chaos, stating, “We must not leave power in the street.”
M23’s expansion indicates a significant challenge to the Congolese central government as they gain territory in the mineral-rich eastern region. A rapid southward push follows their recent capture of Goma, raising international concerns, especially after French President Macron’s call for a ceasefire and withdrawal of M23 forces. The ongoing conflict has already resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths and around 350,000 internally displaced people struggling without shelter.
The rebels continue their advance, having captured the airport serving Bukavu, crucial for military and humanitarian operations. The government has abstained from making immediate comments; however, Communication Ministry officials noted the rebels had breached ceasefire agreements while launching attacks on Congolese troops, echoing previous events prior to their capture of Goma.
The rising conflict has captured the attention of the African Union, where U.N. Secretary-General Guterres stressed the need to avoid regional escalation. He reminded participants of the importance of maintaining Congo’s sovereignty. However, disagreements persist among African leaders regarding the best approach to resolve the situation, despite a collective call for a ceasefire amid rising tensions in the region.
The situation in eastern Congo is dire, as M23 rebels advance into Bukavu, causing mass panic and displacement among residents. The chaos has resulted in looting and a breakdown of order as Congolese troops withdraw. Calls for calm and order from leaders within the rebel coalition reflect the escalating crisis, which has already led to significant loss of life and displacement. The international community is urged to take note of this unfolding crisis and respond appropriately.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
