Kinshasa Urges UN to Fully Enforce Resolution 2773 Amid Persistent Rebel Occupations

Kinshasa, January 27, 2026 - Nearly a year after the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is calling on the UN to fully assume its responsibilities in addressing the deteriorating security situation in the eastern provinces of the country. The resolution, unanimously adopted in February 2025, condemned Rwanda for supporting the AFC/M23 rebellion and demanded the immediate withdrawal of its troops from Congolese territory. It also called on the AFC/M23 to cease hostilities in the DRC. Despite these mandates, the implementation of Resolution 2773 remains largely ineffective, and the eastern DRC continues to face intense insecurity, nearly a year after the occupation of Goma by the rebel movement. During the 10096th session of the UN Security Council on Monday, January 26, 2026, Ambassador Jocelyne Kabengele Lukundula, Deputy Permanent Representative of the DRC to the UN, urged the Council to rigorously implement all resolutions and prioritize the promotion and strengthening of the rule of law. She stressed that this requires: Full enforcement of adopted resolutions, Increased support for fragile states, Ensuring humanitarian operators have unimpeded access to provide assistance to civilians, and Better coordination among UN bodies to strengthen collective peace efforts. “Regional organizations, particularly African ones, play a critical role in peaceful dispute resolution and in reinforcing states’ legal and institutional capacities,” Ambassador Kabengele Lukundula said. “The DRC remains committed to multilateralism, law, and justice as guarantees of lasting and inclusive peace.” On the ground, the security situation in North and South Kivu has worsened since the resolution’s adoption. The AFC/M23 rebellion, supported by Rwanda, continued its territorial expansion, establishing its own parallel administration beyond Kinshasa’s control. While the movement temporarily withdrew from Uvira under US pressure, it retains control over other eastern areas, maintaining security and public services under its authority. Diplomatic processes, including the Washington process between Kinshasa and Kigali and the Doha talks with the AFC/M23, have produced limited progress. Parties continue to accuse each other of failing to honor commitments, fueling ongoing tensions. Despite prior denials, Rwanda has now acknowledged security cooperation with the AFC/M23, further complicating efforts to stabilize the region. Humanitarian and security conditions remain critical, with civilian populations facing displacement, attacks, and limited access to essential services, highlighting the urgent need for UN action and the effective enforcement of Resolution 2773. The DRC continues to call on the UN Security Council to act decisively, ensuring that the resolution translates into tangible security improvements for populations affected by decades of conflict in the eastern DRC.