This Sunday, M23 rebels reinforced its control of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Congolese army spokesperson confirmed that M23 sent reinforcements to the city, seizing control of strategic locations, including the Governor’s office and the DRC-Rwanda border.
General Byamungu reassures population and calls for collaboration against M23
During one of these meetings, General Byamungu strongly condemned the Kinshasa authorities, accusing them of having “perpetrated a crime against humanity” by arming children. He assured the population of the presence of security forces to guarantee their protection. Stressing the importance of collaboration for the development of the country, the General declared: “No development without work, but let’s not forget that peace remains fundamental for a stable nation.
A native of South Kivu, General Byamungu is back in his native province after 14 years of absence, including 7 years spent in prison in Ndolo. He was released by Tshisekedi in March 2019
DRC Government Calls for Unity and Vigilance in M23 controlled arears
On Sunday morning, the DRC presidency declared that the Congolese army had retaken Bukavu. In the afternoon, the government urged the population in M23 controlled area, including Bukavu to remain indoors, stay alert, resilient, and unified in their support of the armed forces and President Tshisekedi.
M23’s Bukavu control a major blow to Kinshasa
The M23’s control of the strategic city of Bukavu is a significant setback for the Kinshasa government and President Félix Tshisekedi. The fall of Bukavu leaves President Tshisekedi without a key military ally in the region, Burundi, and further weakening his position to solve the crisis militarily. This loss follows the neutralization of the SADC force, which is no longer able to operate
Rwanda intercepts DRC shelling amid border tensions
Rwanda’s air defense systems successfully intercepted shelling from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) near the Bakavu-Rusizi border today. This incident marks the second time this month that Rwanda has been forced to defend its territory against DRC aggression.
International concern and condemnation
The M23’s control of Bukavu has raised international concern. Bankole Adeoye, the African Union’s Peace and Security Commissioner, called for the immediate removal of M23 and their supporters from all occupied towns, cities, and Goma airport. He expressed concerns about the balkanization of eastern DRC, though he did not directly mention Rwanda.
The UK condemned the seizure as a violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Sassou Nguesso suggests Kagame-Tshisekedi meeting to ease tensions
President Denis Sassou Nguesso in an interview stated in an interview with France24 that a meeting between Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo could be key to easing tensions between the two countries. He emphasized the need to create conditions conducive to such a dialogue and expressed his belief that sanctions have not historically resolved conflicts, thus favoring a diplomatic approach between the DRC and Rwanda.
Wazalendo militia vows to defend DRC against alleged Rwandan aggression
Kinshasa’s appointed Governor of North Kivu, Major General Somo Kakule Evariste, met with members of the ethnic militia Wazalendo, represented by their leaders in Beni. These militia, reaffirmed their commitment to “defend until the supreme sacrifice” the integrity of the national territory in the face of Rwandan aggression, “in accordance with the vision of the Head of State, Felix Tshisekedi.
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DRC parly speaker urges peaceful resolution amid M23 conflict
Potential for further conflict
There are concerns that M23 and its allies may expand their operations into other provinces. Meanwhile, Kinshasa’s appointed Governor of North Kivu received Wazalendo militia leaders who reaffirmed their commitment to defend the country’s integrity.
Air France cancels flights to Kinshasa
Amidst the unrest, Air France has cancelled flights to Kinshasa but will continue to operate flights t to Congo-Brazzavile. The airline has not given an official reason for the decision to suspend flights to Kinshasa. The airline suspended flights to Kinshasa last month following an attack on the French embassy and other embassies by protesters. The protest was organized by the Congolese government. due to security concerns, highlighting the broader regional impact of the conflict.
