Local officials and eyewitnesses have reported that M23 rebels, with backing from Rwanda, have gained entry into Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This development occurred following a swift advance in territory by the militia, which has been a significant player in the renewed conflict that escalated in 2022.
Reports indicate that the rebels entered Bukavu on Sunday, with a local official, a security source, and five witnesses confirming their presence in the city. A spokesperson for M23 acknowledged the group’s location in a communication with a news agency. The militia has been steadily advancing toward South Kivu’s capital since the capture of Goma, another major city, in late January. The potential fall of Bukavu, if verified, would mark a considerable increase in the territory controlled by M23 since the onset of recent hostilities.
One resident of Bukavu, Claude Bisimwa, recounted a tragic incident involving two fatalities resulting from gunfire allegedly fired by a soldier. As alertness and panic spread throughout the city in response to the advances, reports of looting surfaced, including at a World Food Programme facility, prompting thousands of locals to flee for safety.
The day before, the M23 rebels had taken control of Kavumu Airport, which was crucial for military operations in the region and served as the last substantial military obstacle before reaching Bukavu, a city home to over one million residents. This rapid progression of the M23 rebels underlines ongoing tensions in the region, further amplified as leaders convene at the African Union (AU) summit in Ethiopia. The conflict in the DRC has been highlighted as a pressing concern during this significant meeting.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need to avoid any regional escalations at the summit while advocating for the preservation of DRC’s territorial integrity. The AU has faced scrutiny for its approach to the mounting crisis, with calls for more assertive action gaining momentum among observers and stakeholders concerned about the situation.
Rwanda has officially denied any military involvement with the M23 group while expressing concerns regarding threats from hardline Hutu factions within the DRC. However, a report by UN experts from the previous year suggested that the Rwandan military might have a substantial presence in the DRC and an influential role in supporting M23 operations.
The recent developments in Bukavu reflect the intricate dynamics contributing to the DRC’s complex geopolitical environment and ongoing humanitarian concerns. As the situation evolves, attention to the actions and responses of regional and international entities remains critical.
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