AFC/M23 Warns International Community Against Labeling Its Fighters as Rwandan Agents

South Kivu, DRC - The AFC/M23 coalition, active in the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated that its fighters should not be portrayed as foreigners or Rwandan agents, warning that such narratives could justify stripping Congolese of their citizenship. Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka made the statement on December 13, 2025, in response to accusations from members of the United Nations Security Council alleging ceasefire violations and support from Rwanda.

Kanyuka explained that recent heavy fighting in the Rusizi Valley, South Kivu province, was caused by DRC army forces, Burundian troops, FDLR militants, Wazalendo, and foreign mercenaries violating the ceasefire and attacking civilians.

He emphasized that AFC/M23 is a coalition of Congolese fighters addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poor leadership that backs armed groups such as the genocidal FDLR and targets Congolese Tutsi communities.

“The notion that AFC/M23 are ‘foreigners’ or agents of Rwanda distorts the truth dangerously, lending legitimacy to Kinshasa’s agenda to expel or marginalize Congolese citizens,” Kanyuka said.

While AFC/M23 and Rwanda share concerns over the FDLR threat, Kanyuka stressed that this does not indicate collaboration. The coalition is focused on protecting Congolese refugees, advocating for repatriation, and ensuring security for populations at risk from FDLR attacks, often in coordination with DRC and Burundian forces.

Kanyuka added: “We were forced to take up arms to defend ourselves, as the DRC government continues to target Congolese Tutsi and ignore signed agreements. Since the Doha talks began, DRC warplanes and drones have repeatedly attacked our positions and liberated areas, causing many innocent deaths.”

He also highlighted that DRC forces have blocked roads used by Banyamulenge residents in Minembwe, aiming to starve civilians, while attacks by drones continue, leaving them with no means of defense.

“The letters and announcements we have sent to the international community have not changed anything. If the DRC government can wage war on its own citizens, we have the right to defend our lives and those of our comrades under threat of extermination,” Kanyuka said.

AFC/M23 called for genuine dialogue and compliance by the DRC government with signed agreements to address the root causes of the conflict, urging the international community to press Kinshasa to honor its commitments.