AFC/M23 Condemns International Silence Amid Ongoing Civilian Killings in South Kivu

South Kivu, February 20, 2026 - The AFC/M23 coalition has criticized the international community for remaining silent as DRC government forces and allied groups continue to target civilians in South Kivu Province. According to AFC/M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka, forces from the DRC, Burundi, FDLR, Wazalendo, and foreign mercenaries have carried out killings in the communes of Minembwe, Mikenge, Karingi, and other parts of the highlands. “These intolerable acts of cruelty against humanity are being carried out with the appalling and unjustified silence of aid workers, human rights organizations, and diplomatic institutions,” Kanyuka said. Targeting Vulnerable Populations He emphasized that the attacks disproportionately affect women, children, and the elderly, and are intended to inflict massive harm on the civilian population, in clear violation of international humanitarian law. Ceasefire Violations The coalition reiterated that the DRC government continues to violate the ceasefire agreement signed in Doha, Qatar, as well as other peace resolutions adopted in Washington, United States. “This belligerent behavior threatens to reverse the progress made toward lasting peace and stability in the region,” Kanyuka warned. The statement underscores the growing tensions in South Kivu and calls for urgent international attention to prevent further humanitarian crises.