M23 rebels have fully taken control of Bukavu, seizing key infrastructure, including the airport and the Bukavu-Kamembe border post, despite claims from President Félix Tshisekedi’s office that the city remains under government control.
During a closed-door security meeting with his aides over the weekend, President Tshisekedi falsely claimed that FARDC and Wazalendo militias had successfully repelled M23 forces and restored order in Bukavu. However, as a slap in the face, M23 fighters launched a coordinated assault early Sunday morning, taking over the city’s main government institutions, border posts, and the airport, cementing their authority over South Kivu’s capital.
M23 Reassures Residents Amidst Takeover
Sources have told Taarifa that the M23 commander on the field is actively engaging with Bukavu residents, briefing them on the current security situation and reassuring them of their safety under the group’s administration. The commander has reportedly urged calm, stating that M23’s priority is stability and order, not harming civilians.
Eyewitnesses confirm that M23 fighters are manning roadblocks, patrolling the airport, and regulating movement across the border with Rwanda, demonstrating full operational control over Bukavu.
Contradictions and Blame-Shifting
The conflicting statements from Kinshasa highlight Tshisekedi’s growing loss of control over the security situation in the east. While he initially blamed Rwanda for backing M23, he has now turned his frustration toward his predecessor, Joseph Kabila, accusing him of weakening the country’s security apparatus and enabling the ongoing rebellion. His government’s latest statement attempted to downplay the reality on the ground, insisting that Bukavu had only been “briefly invaded” and that FARDC remained in control—claims that are directly contradicted by multiple reports from within the city.
A statement from the Presidency of the Republic, released after the security meeting, reinforced these denials, claiming:
“The city of Bukavu (South Kivu), invaded for a short time by the terrorist M23, is controlled by the Congolese army and the brave Wazalendo.”
However, sources on the ground confirm the opposite—M23 has not only secured Bukavu’s key installations, but is also working to establish governance and security measures in the city.
Tshisekedi’s Desperate Diplomatic Moves
Faced with mounting pressure, Tshisekedi turned to the international community for support during the 61st Munich Security Conference, where he sought backing from the European Union (EU) against what he calls Rwanda’s “criminal actions” in eastern DRC. According to the statement from his office, multiple EU nations condemned Rwanda’s alleged involvement and pledged to explore possible sanctions against President Paul Kagame’s administration.
However, diplomatic condemnations alone have done little to change the situation on the ground, as M23 continues to expand its territorial control in eastern DRC.
What Next for Bukavu?
With Bukavu now firmly in M23’s hands, the rebels are consolidating their power by securing supply routes, tightening border controls, and preparing for the next phase of their campaign.
The fall of the city, coupled with the group’s earlier victories in North Kivu, marks a significant shift in the balance of power, further undermining Kinshasa’s authority in the region.
As FARDC struggles to mount an effective counteroffensive, Tshisekedi’s credibility is crumbling, both domestically and internationally. His government’s narrative no longer aligns with the realities on the ground, and with each passing day, M23 continues to solidify its hold over eastern Congo.
