M23 Rebels Seize Major City in Eastern Congo

M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have occupied a second major city in eastern Congo. The Congo River Alliance, including M23, claims they are restoring order after Congolese forces abandoned the city. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said: "Our forces have been working to restore the security for the people and their property, much to the satisfaction of the entire population." Bernard Maheshe Byamungu, an M23 leader, vowed to "clean up the disorder" left by the previous regime. Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi, meanwhile, warned of regional conflict expansion.

Bukavu, home to 1.3 million people, saw little resistance as government soldiers fled. M23 is backed by 4,000 Rwandan troops. The group is part of over 100 armed groups competing for control over Congo's mineral wealth. The conflict has displaced over 6 million people, creating a humanitarian crisis. Resident Blaise Byamungu criticized the government's inaction, saying: "Is the government waiting for them to take over other towns to take action? It's cowardice."

The M23's rise is linked to decades-long ethnic conflicts. The group claims they defend Tutsis, with Rwanda alleging persecution by Hutu militias linked to the 1994 genocide. Christian Moleka noted the M23's new image under Corneille Nangaa, a non-Tutsi leader. Despite these tensions, African and international calls remain for a ceasefire and dialogue. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)