M23 Rebels Solidify Control Over Bukavu Amidst Growing Tensions in Eastern DRC
The M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, a major city in eastern DRC, following the abandonment of the city by Congolese forces. Residents are confronted with insecurity and economic disruption, while protests against President Tshisekedi and U.N. peacekeeping forces signal widespread discontent. The ongoing humanitarian crisis now affects over six million individuals in the region.
On Monday, the M23 rebel group solidified its control over Bukavu, a significant city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, just one day after its capture. The city, with a population of approximately 1.3 million, was previously abandoned by Congolese military forces. Bukavu is located 101 kilometers south of Goma, which the rebels had taken over in January.
The M23 group stands out among over 100 armed factions vying for dominance in eastern Congo, an area rich in mineral resources essential for global technology. Reports indicate that the M23 rebels benefit from support provided by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, as confirmed by United Nations experts. This ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over six million individuals, leading to an extensive humanitarian crisis in the region.
As the rebels entered Bukavu, chaos ensued, with residents abandoning their homes and looters rummaging through stores. A somber atmosphere prevailed as many inhabitants braced themselves for the arrival of M23 fighters in the city center. By Monday morning, however, some residents cautiously ventured out, while the rebels maintained a visible presence at key intersections.
David Balezi, a local shopkeeper, expressed concern over the prevailing insecurity, stating, “People are still scared to go out because of the insecurity so it’s not business as usual yet.” Meanwhile, the border crossing to Rwanda remained shut, and many shops were closed, though traffic slowly began to resume by mid-morning. Residents held complex emotions about their situation, as reflected in David Munyaga’s comment, “Now we thank God that the situation is OK, even if we don’t know what’s coming. Whatever happens, we will live with it.”
Erasto Bahati Musanga, appointed as North-Kivu’s provincial governor by the rebels, announced the reopening of ports in Goma and Bukavu scheduled for Tuesday, following a ban on navigation in Lake Kivu that lasted since late January. Meanwhile, in Goma, protests erupted where hundreds demanded the withdrawal of the U.N. peacekeeping forces (MONUSCO) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) troops.
Demonstrators gathered at MONUSCO’s headquarters, chanting slogans against President Felix Tshisekedi, with Bauma Sukali stating, “The war does not end in Congo, why? They have nothing to do here, they should leave.” Another protestor, Fiston Nsabimana, declared criticism towards the President: “Tshisekedi is not able to ensure peace. Let him leave power.”
The recent advancements of the M23 rebels in eastern DRC have led to significant shifts in control and local sentiment, with Bukavu now under rebel authority. While some residents feel resigned to their circumstances, concerns over safety and security remain prevalent. Protests against both local leadership and international peacekeeping forces reflect the growing unrest in the region as the humanitarian crisis intensifies amid ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
