AFC/M23 Describes Troop Movements as “Strategic Rotation,” Kinshasa Questions Intentions

Goma, DRC, March 29, 2026 - The AFC/M23 movement says recent withdrawals observed from several front-line positions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are part of what it describes as a “normal strategic rotation,” amid ongoing uncertainty over the security situation in North and South Kivu. In a statement issued Saturday, March 28, spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the troop movements recorded in multiple areas are routine redeployments within the group’s structure. He described the activity as part of a “normal and strategic rotation of units of the Congolese Revolutionary Army (ARC),” adding that the movement remains committed to what it calls confidence-building measures under the ongoing peace framework. The AFC/M23 also reaffirmed its stated commitment to civilian protection and said it remains prepared to respond to threats on the ground. The explanation comes amid heightened attention to recent shifts in territorial presence reported in parts of Walikale, Rutshuru, and Lubero, where local sources have noted withdrawals or repositioning of armed elements in recent days. However, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has expressed skepticism about the group’s claims. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya said Kinshasa is closely monitoring the situation but remains focused on what it considers the core issue: the presence of foreign-linked armed forces on Congolese territory. He said the government expects a “definitive withdrawal” rather than what it views as tactical or temporary movements, adding that similar redeployments have been observed in the past without leading to lasting de-escalation. The exchanges take place against the backdrop of the stalled Doha peace process, which was intended to advance implementation of a broader framework agreement signed in late 2025. Although initial progress had been recorded under the agreement, including early protocol signings, negotiations have since slowed, with no substantive new rounds reported in recent weeks. Diplomatic sources have cited both regional tensions and logistical constraints affecting mediation efforts, while officials in Kinshasa maintain that they remain committed to the process but want clearer guarantees on implementation. Despite the diplomatic track, fighting and local insecurity continue in several areas of eastern DRC, with residents frequently reporting shifting frontlines, temporary withdrawals, and renewed clashes between AFC/M23 elements, Wazalendo fighters, and other armed groups.