Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have taken control of Bukavu, a key city in eastern DRC, following previous gains in Goma. The Congolese army's swift defeat has prompted thousands to flee to Burundi, while others have tentatively welcomed M23's arrival. Claiming their intent to restore security, the M23 has declared its commitment to assist the local population abandoned by government forces. The fall of Bukavu significantly undermines the authority of Kinshasa and raises concerns of escalating violence resulting in a larger regional conflict.
The M23 began advancing in South Kivu after last month taking control of Goma, the capital of neighbouring North Kivu province, which borders Rwanda. Fighting between the M23 and the Congolese army there left thousands dead, according to the United Nations.
In a statement read on local radio on Monday, a rebel alliance that includes M23 said it would assist the population of Bukavu who were abandoned by the army and allied combatants. Our forces have been working to restore the security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population.
Bukavu is the latest city to fall into the hands of the M23, also known as the March 23 Movement, which in recent months has seized swathes of territory in the eastern DRC after again taking up arms in late 2021.
Residents of the capital of South Kivu province were tentatively walking the streets again on Monday, a day after M23 rebels overran the city with next to no resistance from the fleeing Congolese army.
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