GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo — In a combative press conference held Thursday, leaders of the Congo River Alliance/M23 (AFC/M23) accused the Congolese government of systematically violating peace agreements and announced their intention to take “responsibility” for responding to what they described as repeated attacks on their positions and civilians.
“Enough Is Enough”
Political coordinator Corneille Nangaa, flanked by his deputy Bertrand Bisimwa, told national and international journalists gathered in Goma that the Kinshasa government under President Félix Tshisekedi had acted in “blatant bad faith” during the peace process initiated in Doha, Qatar.
“It is time to take responsibility,” Nangaa declared, asserting that the trust required for meaningful dialogue had been destroyed by the government’s actions.
Six Allegations of Violations
The M23 leadership presented six specific incidents they claim demonstrate the government’s pattern of aggression:
- Mikenke, South Kivu: The alliance accused government forces of blockading supply routes to Minembwe for one week, targeting the Tutsi Banyamulenge community. They alleged sexual violence against women and girls, with images circulated on social media.
- October 20 – Peti: M23 claimed CH-4 drone strikes destroyed a critical bridge and civilian infrastructure, followed by ground attacks on their positions in Lumbishi (Kalehe territory) and Kaseke (Masisi territory).
- October 21 – Nyarushamba, Masisi: Additional drone bombardments allegedly targeted both civilian areas and M23 military positions.
- October 21 – Bibwe, Masisi: Further attacks reported on M23 positions.
- October 22 – Kashebere: Drone strikes from Kisangani allegedly killed and injured multiple civilians.
- October 23 – Twangiza, South Kivu: The facilities of a major private company were reportedly destroyed, with neighboring houses set ablaze.
Stark Warning to Government Forces
Bertrand Bisimwa delivered an unambiguous threat: “We will respond blow for blow, using methods we know how to define.”
The deputy coordinator also issued a direct warning to Burundian troops deployed alongside the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), demanding their immediate withdrawal from Congolese territory or face forced removal.
International Implications
The M23 leaders stated they have repeatedly informed the Doha process facilitator about these alleged violations. The press conference marks a significant escalation in rhetoric from the rebel movement, which has controlled significant territory in eastern DRC.
The alliance’s announcement raises concerns about renewed large-scale violence in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, regions already devastated by decades of conflict involving multiple armed groups and neighboring countries.
Background
The M23 rebel group, which has captured substantial territory including areas near the provincial capital Goma, has been engaged in on-and-off peace negotiations with the Congolese government. The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians and drawn in regional powers, with Rwanda accused of backing M23—charges Kigali denies.
The Kinshasa government has not yet responded to Thursday’s allegations and threats.
