In the regions of the Bwito chiefdom, Rutshuru territory, an escalation of violent fighting between the Wazalendo militiamen and the M23 rebels has had terrible consequences for the inhabitants. Since daybreak on Monday, explosions of heavy and light weapons have resonated in the area, plunging the local populations into a state of fear and continuous displacement.
The worrying testimonies of the inhabitants and notables of the region highlight the seriousness of the situation. Isaac Kibira, a notable of Bwito, warns of the massive displacement of populations fleeing the clashes. Schools, churches and households are overwhelmed by the constant arrival of displaced people seeking refuge in the Bambo urban area. The M23 elements put forward pretexts for operations against the FDLR and the Wazalendo, but the risk to innocent civilians remains imminent.
The violence of these fights is accompanied by other forms of repression. M23 rebels are banning residents from cultivating their fields, accusing them of being complicit with the armed groups targeted by their tracking operations. The consequences of this restriction are being felt harshly, with motorcycles burned and a growing threat to the security and livelihoods of local populations.
Despite the ceasefire recently signed between the DRC and Rwanda under the aegis of Angola, clashes are increasing between the armed factions, jeopardizing regional stability. Senators from North Kivu highlight the limits of the persistent state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, calling for a reassessment of this measure to reconcile security and development.
Faced with this alarming situation, it is becoming imperative for the authorities to take effective measures to protect civilian populations and restore stability in the region. The international community could play a crucial role by supporting peace initiatives and promoting a balanced dialogue between the different actors in the conflict. It is essential to implement sustainable solutions to end the violence and build a peaceful future for the people of the Rutshuru region.