M23 Fighters Capture Bukavu as Fears of DRC Fragmentation Grow
M23 fighters, along with Rwandan troops, have taken control of Bukavu, a major city in eastern DRC, fearing the country’s potential breakup. There’s growing international pressure on Rwanda to withdraw support for M23. As unrest escalates in Bukavu, local residents have expressed divided sentiments, welcoming the fighters while also facing chaos from looting. Concerns of broader conflict are mounting as global leaders call for de-escalation and respect for DRC’s sovereignty.
On Sunday, M23 fighters, supported by Rwandan troops, entered Bukavu, a critical city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This follows their advance to the outskirts of the city on Friday. The capture of Bukavu, home to over one million residents, marks a significant gain, allowing M23 control over Lake Kivu after seizing Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, in January.
International pressure is mounting for Rwanda to cease its military support of M23. However, Rwanda continues to deny its military presence in the DRC. As the M23 entered Bukavu, reports indicated that some locals welcomed the fighters, expressing their desire for change. Bukavu residents responded with cheers, and some even urged M23 to advance towards the capital, Kinshasa.
The Congolese armed forces (FARDC) had largely retreated from Bukavu, leaving their weapons behind, which incited looting throughout the city. Eyewitnesses reported civilians taking arms left by the military, engaging in theft of goods like flour and beer. The M23 instructed locals to form vigilance committees in response to the chaos, also calling for the withdrawal of Burundian soldiers supporting the Congolese army.
Amid ongoing chaos, sporadic gunfire was reported, particularly near military installations. Local residents noted that M23 fighters pursued remaining soldiers and civilians involved in looting. The DRC government remains vigilant, claiming to monitor Bukavu situation closely, while accusing Rwanda of territorial ambitions in the eastern region.
Fears are increasing that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war, prompting international calls for de-escalation. The African Union’s Peace and Security Commissioner highlighted the urgent need to prevent the fragmentation of eastern DRC, calling for M23 and its supporters to withdraw from key urban areas. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining DRC’s territorial integrity and avoiding conflict.
The French foreign ministry and the British government have both demanded the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces. While the DRC claims about 4,000 Rwandan troops are active in the east, Rwanda attributes its military presence to concerns regarding threats from armed groups in the area. This enduring conflict with M23 has persisted for three years, exacerbated by allegations of Rwanda’s interest in the DRC’s mineral resources and agricultural land.
The M23’s capture of Bukavu raises significant alarm over the potential disintegration of the Democratic Republic of Congo. As international pressure mounts on Rwanda to cease military support, the chaos in Bukavu indicates a critical flashpoint that could lead to regional conflict. Key stakeholders, including the UN and African Union, are advocating for a diplomatic resolution to preserve DRC’s territorial integrity and prevent further escalations.
Original Source: www.bryantimes.com
