The M23 rebel group has demanded direct involvement in discussions on implementing resolutions from the Dar es Salaam Summit regarding Goma, warning that continued military buildup by Burundian forces and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) threatens the ceasefire.
In a statement released on Tuesday, M23 welcomed the outcomes of the joint East African Community (EAC) and SADC summit held on February 8, 2025, emphasizing its commitment to a political resolution to the DRC conflict. The group highlighted its unilateral ceasefire declared on February 4 as evidence of its willingness to engage in dialogue.
“The AFC/M23 fully agrees that only dialogue and political solutions can resolve the multifaceted crisis in our country,” said M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, adding that the group had been engaging with political and social actors to push for governance reforms.
However, M23 criticized South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation for allegedly misrepresenting the security situation in Goma. The group denied claims that armed factions had overrun the city, asserting it had “liberated and secured” the area.
Kanyuka insisted that implementing the Dar es Salaam Summit resolutions concerning Goma must involve M23, citing technical issues such as unexploded ordnance and runway damage delaying the reopening of Goma International Airport.
The group also accused the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the Burundi National Defence Forces (BNDF) of reinforcing their positions and preparing for attacks on Kalehe and Nyabibwe, warning of potential retaliation.
“We are reliably informed about FARDC and Burundian reinforcements planning to launch attacks on the populated liberated areas of Kalehe and Nyabibwe. Such attacks will provoke a decisive retaliation,” M23 stated.
M23 urged Burundi and SADC countries to withdraw their forces in line with the Dar es Salaam Summit’s peace efforts.
“We expect Burundi and SADC member states to contribute to peace in the DRC by ensuring the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of SAMIDRC and BNDF forces. We call upon these countries to honour and uphold the spirit of Dar es Salaam,” the group said.
The Dar es Salaam Summit, held to address the deteriorating crisis in the DRC, directed regional defense chiefs to meet within five days to provide technical direction on enforcing an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. The summit also called for humanitarian corridors to evacuate the dead and injured.
Despite diplomatic efforts, M23’s insistence on direct involvement in peace discussions presents a challenge, as the Kinshasa government has previously refused to negotiate with the group. Tensions on the ground remain high, raising concerns about the fragility of the ceasefire and the prospects for lasting peace.
