Congo-Kinshasa: AFC/M23 Condemns Continued Attacks On Banyamulenge in South Kivu

AFC/M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo have accused the government of attacking the Banyamulenge community. This accusation was made in a statement on X on June 2. Lawrence Kanyuka, the rebel spokesperson, called the attacks "terrorist actions." He said these operations occurred between May 23 and 29 in South Kivu.

Kanyuka claimed that Congolese government forces coordinated with allied groups for these attacks. These allies include the Burundian army, Rwandan militia FDLR, and Wazalendo militias. One targeted area was Rugezi, where deadly attacks took place.

In Mikenke and Kalingi, Wazalendo militias attacked villages from Kipupu and Zero. Bijabo and Bibokoboko also faced joint offensives from Burundian forces and Wazalendo militias. Eastern DR Congo has been in conflict for three decades with many armed groups active.

Since late 2021, M23 rebels have fought against government forces. The government is supported by European mercenaries, SADC forces, Burundian troops, and local militias. The rebels captured two major cities in eastern DR Congo this year.

The AFC/M23 accuses the Congolese government of systemic failures. They cite poor governance, economic mismanagement, and persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities as issues. Former President Joseph Kabila has returned from exile to help resolve the conflict. He currently resides in territory controlled by AFC/M23.

Despite efforts for peace from various actors, hostilities continue in the region.