Rwanda-Backed Rebels Cause Mass Displacement in Eastern Congo
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advance on Bukavu, eastern Congo, prompting thousands to flee amid rampant looting and violence. The non-deployment of Congolese troops has intensified chaos, with accusations against military members collaborating in the looting. International interventions are under discussion, while the conflict has already claimed many lives and displaced thousands.
GOMA, Congo — A state of panic gripped Bukavu, eastern Congo’s second-largest city, as residents fled en masse to escape Rwanda-backed rebels. M23 fighters advanced towards Bukavu, affecting the city’s population of 1.3 million. Streets were flooded with people trying to leave, while looters capitalized on the chaos. Corpses were left on the streets after violent confrontations with looters, who took advantage of the absence of Congolese soldiers. Alain Iragi, a resident, indicated that soldiers had fled, abandoning their posts and igniting their remaining ammunition.
Social media reports highlighted extensive looting and pillaging of factories, alongside emptied prisons. “It’s a disgrace. Some citizens have fallen victim to stray bullets,” lamented a local resident. Congolese citizens waited in dread for further violence after witnessing the impact of the looting. The Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, accused local militia and Congolese troops of precipitating the chaos.
M23, fortified by 4,000 Rwandan troops, is a primary rebel group among over 100 competing for control in Congo’s mineral-rich eastern provinces. They have faced allegations of sexual violence, forced conscriptions, and executions, intensifying opposition from both Congolese authorities and international observers. Their territorial expansion presents significant challenges to Kinshasa’s central government, resulting in nearly 3,000 fatalities and displacing hundreds of thousands.
Following their recent advance, the rebels claimed to have taken control of a second airport in Kavumu, essential for resupplying troops and providing humanitarian aid. Congolese forces have struggled with training and coordination issues, leading to a withdrawal that resembles past events before M23 captured Goma. Reports indicate that government officials are refraining from commenting, yet violations of ceasefire agreements by the rebels are evident.
International discussions about the ongoing conflict are scheduled at the African Union summit in Ethiopia, amidst President Félix Tshisekedi’s entreaties for global intervention against the rebels and the backing from Rwanda. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the importance of preventing regional escalation and preserving national sovereignty during the summit.
Troop deployments from Burundi and the Southern African Development Community seek to support Congolese forces, while Uganda engages in conflicts against other rebel factions in eastern Congo. Tensions escalated when Uganda’s military commander threatened offensive actions against opposing forces. This complex situation poses risks of further violent confrontations and escalated conflicts throughout the region.
The situation in eastern Congo has escalated dramatically, with thousands fleeing as M23 rebels advance towards Bukavu. The chaos caused by looting and violence in the absence of Congolese troops highlights significant security failures. International intervention remains uncertain amid pleas from the Congolese government, while regional tensions threaten to spiral further out of control if not managed carefully.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
