The Alliance Fleuve Congo/M23 (AFC/M23) has issued a scathing condemnation of the Congolese government and its regional allies, accusing them of orchestrating a systematic extermination campaign against the Banyamulenge Tutsi population in South Kivu Province.
In a statement released Saturday, December 13, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka denounced what he described as “premeditated and targeted aerial strikes” on densely populated villages, including Mikenke and Rwesankuku. The attacks, allegedly carried out by Sukhoi-25 fighter jets, combat helicopters, and drones operating from Burundian territory, resulted in the deaths of women and children and widespread displacement.
“These strikes deliberately target defenseless civilians… Such acts constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity,” Kanyuka said.
The AFC/M23 confirmed its capture of Uvira on December 10, a strategic city long held by the Congolese government coalition. The group claims the offensive was a response to ongoing violations of the Doha peace process and the continued marginalization of Congolese Tutsi communities.
UN Security Council Briefing Sparks Tensions
During a UN Security Council session on December 12, Rwanda’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Martin Ngoga, urged the Council to address the escalating crisis in South Kivu. He called for MONUSCO’s renewed mandate to be anchored in the Washington Peace Agreement and the Doha Framework, emphasizing the need for impartiality and support for ceasefire implementation.
“Rwanda expects a mission that reinforces both peace tracks… These are central avenues for sustainable peace,” Ngoga stated.
Despite Ngoga’s intervention, no other Council member addressed the plight of Congolese Tutsi communities or the alleged involvement of the Burundian army and FDLR militias in the conflict. Burundi has reportedly deployed over 20,000 troops across South Kivu, intensifying combat operations against Banyamulenge civilians.
AFC/M23 Reaffirms Commitment to Peace
In a separate declaration dated December 13 and signed by Kanyuka, the AFC/M23 reaffirmed its support for the Doha peace process and condemned the Kinshasa regime’s “ethnic cleansing, repression of opposition, and state capture.” The movement rejected claims that it operates as a foreign proxy, asserting its identity as a Congolese liberation force fighting for citizenship rights, refugee repatriation, and protection from genocide.
“Portraying AFC/M23 as foreigners is a dangerous distortion… It legitimizes the government’s narrative and marginalizes Congolese citizens,” the statement read.
As the international community weighs its next steps, the AFC/M23 warns that continued silence and inaction could embolden further atrocities. The group calls for urgent humanitarian intervention and a reevaluation of MONUSCO’s role in the region.
