AFC/M23 accuses mediators of complicity in sabotaging peace efforts in eastern DRC
In a scathing statement delivered Thursday in Goma, North Kivu, the political coordinator of the AFC/M23, Corneille Nangaa, condemned what he described as Kinshasa’s “irresponsible” and “warmongering” rhetoric following President Félix Tshisekedi’s remarks in Houston, United States. The Congolese head of state had vowed to reclaim areas under the control of the politico-military movement, further escalating tensions in the already volatile eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Nangaa went on to criticize the international community’s silence, calling it “deafening” and bordering on complicity. He argued that mediators and partners in the peace process possess detailed information about the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation, particularly in the Minembwe Highlands, yet have taken no meaningful action to address the crisis. According to Nangaa, this inaction fosters a climate of impunity and emboldens continued violence.
International observers accused of failing to act
In a strongly worded address, Nangaa highlighted the apparent disconnect between diplomatic efforts and ground realities. He pointed out that while the AFC/M23 has released hundreds of prisoners of war as a confidence-building measure, Kinshasa has failed to reciprocate with any tangible commitments. The political coordinator emphasized that the international community’s failure to hold Kinshasa accountable for its actions undermines peace initiatives, including the Washington and Doha agreements, which aim to establish a durable ceasefire and revive dialogue between conflicting parties.
“In light of this dire situation and the ensuing calamities, we have a responsibility before God, History, and the Nation to acknowledge this deafening silence from mediators and partners in the peace process, which borders on complicity. The international community has detailed information about the ground reality, the massive civilian casualties, and the perpetrators of these crimes,” Nangaa stated.
The AFC/M23 leader also criticized the tendency to downplay the security crisis in eastern DRC, asserting that Kinshasa’s actions consistently undermine peace efforts under the watch of the country’s international partners. He accused Félix Tshisekedi and his allies of engaging in manipulation, deception, and intrigue, all of which gravely compromise the peace process.
Military escalation contradicts peace efforts
Nangaa stressed that the continued deployment of additional military forces and the reinforcement of military structures directly contradict the spirit of sincere de-escalation. He argued that while the AFC/M23 has taken steps to demonstrate its commitment to peace, such as prisoner releases, Kinshasa has repeatedly failed to honor its reciprocal obligations. This imbalance, according to Nangaa, perpetuates the cycle of violence and prolongs the suffering of civilians in the region.
The AFC/M23’s accusations come at a time when diplomatic efforts, including peace talks in Doha and other regional initiatives, have yet to yield concrete results on the ground. Despite ongoing negotiations, hostilities between the rebel group and government forces continue unabated, further complicating efforts to achieve lasting peace in eastern DRC.
Clément Muamba reporting from Goma
