DR Congo: M23 Rebels Seize Control of Bukavu, Capital of South Kivu, Including Governor’s Office

M23 rebels have reportedly taken control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province after Congolese troops withdrew from the city. The armed group, advancing since capturing Goma in late January, met little resistance as it moved in on Sunday.

According to Reuters, residents reported seeing M23 fighters patrolling central districts early in the morning. By midday, the rebels had established their hold over key government buildings, including the governor’s office and Independence Square. Videos verified by Reuters showed M23 fighters addressing locals, some of whom welcomed them with cheers while others watched cautiously.

The takeover followed a shift on Friday when M23 fighters seized Kavumu airport, an important transport hub north of Bukavu. As the rebels advanced, Congolese and Burundian troops gradually pulled back from Bukavu’s main military camp, Saio.

South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi confirmed the military withdrawal, saying it was intended to prevent clashes in heavily populated areas.

The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of actively supporting M23’s offensive and deploying its troops in Bukavu. In a recent statement, the government said, “Rwanda is stubbornly pursuing its plan to occupy, pillage, and commit crimes and serious human rights violations on our soil.” Rwanda has denied the allegations, insisting that its forces are not involved and that it is defending itself against Hutu-led militias operating in eastern Congo.

The rebels’ rapid advance since the beginning of the year, combined with the involvement of regional forces, has heightened fears that a war will result.

Unlike the brutal battle for Goma, which left an estimated 3,000 people dead, Bukavu fell with less bloodshed. However, its capture marks a turning point in the conflict. M23 now controls more territory than any rebel group since the wars that devastated Congo between 1996 and 2003. The group’s gains in North and South Kivu provinces have placed some of the region’s most valuable mineral deposits under its control. ‎

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