The Wazalendo fighters were sighted entering the city through the Camp TV area in Kadutu Commune on Monday morning. However, M23 forces quickly responded, forcing the Wazalendo fighters to retreat to the hills from which they had advanced within 20 minutes.

M23 has controlled Bukavu since mid-February after expelling Congolese government forces, including the Wazalendo fighters.

Since taking over the city, M23 has tightened security measures to enable residents resume their daily activities, including business operations.

To facilitate governance and security in Bukavu and the surrounding areas, M23 established a new administration for South Kivu province on February 28.

Emmanuel Birato Rwihimba was appointed Governor, while Dunia Masumbuko Bwenge will serve as Deputy Governor in charge of politics, administration, and legal affairs. Juvénal Bushinge Gasinzira was named Deputy Governor in charge of the economy, finance, and development.

M23’s leadership, which is part of the AFC rebel alliance, has in recent months intensified its offensive against President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration, which they accuse of discriminating against certain communities, particularly Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese.

M23 has controlled Bukavu since mid-February after expelling Congolese government forces, including the Wazalendo fighters.