The M23 group, considered a threat to stability in the region, has taken control of the city of Bukavu, the provincial capital of South-Kivu, marking a significant territorial gain in their insurgency, which began in late 2021. Their advance has triggered widespread panic and fears of a broader regional conflict.
Second Congolese City Seized by M23 Rebels Amid Growing Tensions
Second Congolese City Seized by M23 Rebels Amid Growing Tensions
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have captured Bukavu, escalating the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a striking turn of events, Rwandan-backed M23 rebels entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on Sunday, December 17. The fighters swiftly took control of the regional governor's office amid little resistance from Congolese forces. As the M23 marched into the city, some residents expressed their support, clapping and cheering for the rebels, which raises questions about the motivations behind the local reaction.
The Congolese government has recognized the fall of Bukavu and has advised residents to remain indoors to avoid confrontations with the occupying forces. Reports indicate that the situation on the ground is volatile, with ongoing gunfire and looting, as families grapple with fear and uncertainty.
The UN and European leaders have expressed concerns that the latest M23 offensive could lead to a wider conflict in the region, displacing hundreds of thousands of individuals from their homes. With Bukavu, situated on the southern tip of Lake Kivu and an important transit point for the local mineral trade, seized by M23 forces, this represents a significant expansion of their influence and a setback for the Congolese government.
Provincial governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki confirmed the capture of the city center by the M23 and acknowledged that Congolese troops had withdrawn to prevent urban combat, creating a security vacuum. Eyewitness accounts report chaotic scenes, including a prison break and looting of essential supplies, such as food from the UN World Food Programme warehouse.
Government officials have accused Rwanda of exacerbating instability in the region by backing the M23 group, claims that Kigali vehemently denies. President Félix Tshisekedi is urging for international support against Rwanda's alleged territorial aggression, while Rwandan President Paul Kagame has stressed that national security remains a priority, especially concerning threats posed by the Congolese-based FLDR rebel group.
As the M23 forces consolidate their control over Bukavu, they have called for the surrender of Congolese military personnel, whom they accuse of inciting fear among the populace. The African Union is closely monitoring the escalating situation and has urged a ceasefire to prevent an open regional war.
This latest escalation further complicates the already chaotic landscape in the eastern DRC, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to the enduring conflict.
The Congolese government has recognized the fall of Bukavu and has advised residents to remain indoors to avoid confrontations with the occupying forces. Reports indicate that the situation on the ground is volatile, with ongoing gunfire and looting, as families grapple with fear and uncertainty.
The UN and European leaders have expressed concerns that the latest M23 offensive could lead to a wider conflict in the region, displacing hundreds of thousands of individuals from their homes. With Bukavu, situated on the southern tip of Lake Kivu and an important transit point for the local mineral trade, seized by M23 forces, this represents a significant expansion of their influence and a setback for the Congolese government.
Provincial governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki confirmed the capture of the city center by the M23 and acknowledged that Congolese troops had withdrawn to prevent urban combat, creating a security vacuum. Eyewitness accounts report chaotic scenes, including a prison break and looting of essential supplies, such as food from the UN World Food Programme warehouse.
Government officials have accused Rwanda of exacerbating instability in the region by backing the M23 group, claims that Kigali vehemently denies. President Félix Tshisekedi is urging for international support against Rwanda's alleged territorial aggression, while Rwandan President Paul Kagame has stressed that national security remains a priority, especially concerning threats posed by the Congolese-based FLDR rebel group.
As the M23 forces consolidate their control over Bukavu, they have called for the surrender of Congolese military personnel, whom they accuse of inciting fear among the populace. The African Union is closely monitoring the escalating situation and has urged a ceasefire to prevent an open regional war.
This latest escalation further complicates the already chaotic landscape in the eastern DRC, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to the enduring conflict.
