AFC/M23 Accuses Burundi’s President of Role in Attacks on Banyamulenge

GOMA, February 13, 2026 - Corneille Nangaa, leader of the opposition coalition AFC/M23, has condemned Évariste Ndayishimiye over what he described as the continued targeting of Banyamulenge civilians in South Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. In a statement released February 13, Nangaa denounced ongoing military operations allegedly carried out by Congolese government forces alongside Burundian troops against both civilians and AFC/M23 positions. He also criticized the Burundian leader, who is expected to assume a senior continental role, accusing him of contributing to crimes against the Banyamulenge population. Call for International Intervention Nangaa urged the international community and African institutions to act quickly to prevent wider ethnic tensions in the Great Lakes region and to assist affected civilians. Background to Burundian Deployment The Burundi deployed troops to the DRC under a bilateral agreement aimed at fighting armed groups operating in the region, including RED Tabara, FNL-Nzabampema, and FOREBU. According to the AFC/M23, the mission later expanded, with Burundian forces allegedly participating in operations in Banyamulenge-inhabited areas across the territories of Uvira, Fizi, and Mwenga, particularly in Minembwe commune. Road Closures and Humanitarian Impact For several months, roads linking Minembwe residents to markets and health facilities have reportedly been closed. Burundian army spokesperson Brig. Gen. Gaspard Baratuza previously stated the restrictions were imposed because some residents were suspected of collaborating with hostile armed groups. The accusations come amid escalating tensions in eastern DRC, where multiple armed actors and foreign forces remain engaged in a complex conflict with significant humanitarian consequences.