Government of DR Congo Acknowledges M23's Incursion into Bukavu
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Synopsis
The DRC government has condemned M23 rebels' entry into Bukavu, which has seen the seizure of several strategic locations. The government reassures citizens of monitoring efforts while urging them to stay indoors for safety.
Key Takeaways
- Government condemns M23 rebels' entry into Bukavu.
- M23 has taken strategic sites, including the governor's residence.
- Kavumu Airport, a crucial supply hub, is now under M23 control.
- Residents are advised to stay indoors to avoid conflict.
- Government claims Bukavu remains under Congolese army control.
Kinshasa, Feb 17 (NationPress) The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has expressed its condemnation regarding the entry of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels into Bukavu, a significant city in the region. Reports indicate that the rebels have taken control of various strategic locations within the city.
In an official statement, the DRC government reassured the public that it is actively monitoring the situation in Bukavu, which serves as the capital of South Kivu Province, where the M23 rebels made their entrance earlier in the morning, according to Xinhua news agency.
“Bukavu, Goma, and all other areas occupied in North Kivu and South Kivu stand as symbols of our resistance,” the government declared, though it did not clarify whether it maintains control over the city.
Local sources have reported that M23 rebels gained control over several critical sites in the city on Saturday morning, including the residence of the provincial governor.
The government reiterated its dedication to restoring order, security, and territorial integrity, urging residents of Bukavu to remain indoors to avoid becoming targets.
On Friday, the M23 announced its takeover of Kavumu Airport, an essential humanitarian and military supply center in South Kivu. This airport acts as a crucial defensive position for Bukavu, situated about 30 km away.
The recent offensive by M23 follows weeks after the group claimed it had captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu, on January 26. Since early February, the rebels have taken several towns in South Kivu, causing panic among the residents of Bukavu.
In a statement released on the X social media platform early Sunday, the country's presidential office asserted that “Bukavu, momentarily invaded by M23 terrorists, is now under the control of the Congolese army and its allies.”
