By Ollus Ndomu
The M23 rebel group has seized control of Bukavu, a major city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant expansion of their influence in the region. The takeover comes just weeks after they captured Goma, a city of two million people.
Rebel forces reportedly encountered little resistance from government troops, who were seen fleeing alongside thousands of civilians on Saturday. Witnesses confirmed that M23 fighters had positioned themselves at the governor’s office and were met with cheers from some residents as they entered the city. The Congolese army has yet to issue a response regarding the situation.
The M23, backed by an estimated 4,000 Rwandan troops according to UN experts, has been advancing rapidly since the start of the year. The fall of Bukavu represents the group’s most significant territorial gain since the resurgence of their rebellion in 2022. Unlike their 2012 occupation of Goma, analysts suggest that this time, the rebels may be positioning themselves for political control.
The conflict has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis, with more than six million people displaced due to ongoing violence. Eastern Congo, rich in minerals critical to global technology supply chains, remains a battleground for more than 100 armed groups vying for power.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has threatened an incursion into eastern Congo, demanding all armed forces in the town of Bunia lay down their weapons within 24 hours. Known for past controversial statements, the general’s threats raise concerns about a wider regional conflict.
With the Congolese army in disarray and reports of soldiers defecting due to tribal tensions and financial incentives, the question remains: if M23 takes full control, will its leader, Corneille Nangaa, be able to unite a country with nearly 300 ethnic groups, or will Congo descend further into inter-tribal warfare?
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