M23 Rebels Seize Bukavu, Vow to Restore Security Amid Escalating Conflict
M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, promising to restore security after a swift conquest. This takeover follows the capture of Goma and has escalated fears of regional war as local residents face a humanitarian crisis from rampant looting and economic distress. The UN has condemned the looting of food supplies, urging protections for vulnerable populations caught in the conflict.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have seized Bukavu, the second major city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and have vowed to restore security in the area. This takeover follows the capture of Goma and marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, raising fears of a broader regional war. Residents cautiously resumed normal activities a day after the city fell to M23 with little resistance from the Congolese army.
After the capture, thousands fled to Burundi, while some locals welcomed the M23, believing the group would provide security after the Congolese army’s withdrawal. The M23 announced on local radio that it would aid residents, claiming to address the abandonment felt by the citizens left vulnerable by the Congolese military’s retreat. They declared, “Our forces have been working to restore the security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population.”
With Bukavu’s occupation, the M23 has solidified its control over significant portions of eastern DRC since re-engaging militarily in late 2021. This control further undermines the authority of Kinshasa, DRC’s capital, and comes after intense fighting that has already resulted in substantial casualties, particularly in Goma.
Erasto Bahati Musanga, the newly appointed governor of North Kivu by M23, stated that the ports in both Bukavu and Goma would reopen soon after being closed due to previous conflicts. Meanwhile, reports indicate that looting occurred during the chaos, with significant theft from humanitarian warehouses, causing delays in food support meant for vulnerable families.
The UN’s World Food Programme reported a loss of 7,000 tonnes of food supplies due to looting, condemning the action and urging adherence to international humanitarian laws. This situation has exacerbated an emerging humanitarian crisis in the region. Local merchants are slowly starting to reopen businesses amidst the fear and uncertainty.
Despite the turmoil, merchants like Maman Nyabadeu are attempting to revive their trade, albeit with diminished customer turnout. The M23, supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, continues to navigate the power struggles among numerous armed groups in the eastern DRC, all vying for control over the region’s vast mineral resources.
The recent seizure of Bukavu by M23 rebels has raised urgent concerns about regional stability and the humanitarian implications for the local population. The rebels’ promise to restore security contrasts sharply with the chaos caused by looting and economic disruption. As international bodies call for adherence to humanitarian law, the situation remains precarious, necessitating continued attention and intervention to safeguard the rights and needs of civilians.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
