M23 Rebels Seize Bukavu in Eastern DRC, Pledge to Restore Security
The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have captured Bukavu in eastern DRC, pledging to restore security. This escalation raises fears of regional conflict as locals react to the takeover and subsequent looting. Economic activities are gradually resuming amidst significant challenges, including lost humanitarian supplies. The situation highlights the complex dynamics of conflict and resource control in the region.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have vowed to restore security in Bukavu, following its capture, making it the second significant city to fall under their control. This takeover has intensified concerns over a potential regional conflict, as locals tentatively return to their daily routines amidst the tumult.
Bukavu, a crucial city in South Kivu province, saw its control shift with minimal resistance from the Congolese army, prompting fear among residents. Many fled to neighboring Burundi, while others welcomed the M23, viewing them as a possible stabilizing force following the army’s abandonment during the assault.
The M23, known as the March 23 Movement, has significantly expanded its territory in eastern DRC since late 2021. The loss of Bukavu, home to approximately 1.3 million people, exacerbates the central government’s declining authority and raises alarms regarding an escalating conflict that threatens to engulf the region.
Erasto Bahati Musanga, the M23-appointed governor of North Kivu, announced the reopening of ports in both Bukavu and Goma, where maritime activity had been halted since a rebel offensive began. However, while violence in Bukavu was limited, many businesses experienced looting during the chaos, impacting local residents severely.
The World Food Programme reported significant looting of humanitarian supplies, with approximately 7,000 tonnes of food stolen, which was intended to assist vulnerable families facing a deepening humanitarian crisis. The agency has called for adherence to international humanitarian law to protect civilians and aid workers in the conflict.
Residents like Pascal Zulu expressed despair over the looting of their shops, having lost everything and struggling to find a way to repay debts incurred. Despite these challenges, some markets in Bukavu resumed operations, albeit with limited customers as locals sought to resume economic activities.
The M23 represents one of numerous armed groups pursuing control over eastern DRC’s vast mineral wealth and is allegedly supported by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, although Rwanda denies such claims. This ongoing turmoil highlights the complex dynamics at play within the region, which is rich in resources but plagued by conflict.
In summary, the capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels reflects a troubling escalation in violence within the DRC, raising fears of broader regional conflict. The rebels are attempting to establish order in the city while contending with the consequences of looting and humanitarian crises. Support from Rwanda complicates the situation, underlining the intertwining issues of poverty, governance, and regional power struggles that continue to challenge eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
