Eastern DRC: Government and AFC/M23 Trade Accusations Amid Ceasefire Tensions

Goma, October 20, 2025 - Tensions remain high in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as the government and the AFC/M23 rebel movement continue to accuse each other of violating the ongoing ceasefire.

On Thursday, 24 October 2025, during a press briefing in Goma, the AFC/M23 denounced attacks by the FARDC in the territories of Walikale, Masisi, and Kalehe. In response, government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya dismissed the allegations, asserting that the rebels are attempting to distract from their own abuses, which reportedly included over 270 murders, 300 rapes, and numerous cases of torture recorded in September.

The AFC/M23 has now threatened retaliation against any perceived provocation, raising fears among observers of a potential escalation of violence despite repeated calls for adherence to the ceasefire. Security analysts warn that without renewed dialogue and enforcement, the fragile truce in eastern DRC could quickly collapse.