Thousands March in Kiwanja to Support AFC/M23, Urge Security and Dialogue

Rutshuru, North Kivu - December 23, 2025 - Thousands of residents took to the streets of Kiwanja on Tuesday in a peaceful demonstration expressing support for the AFC/M23 coalition and rejecting the government of President Félix Tshisekedi.

Organized primarily by local women’s groups, the marchers called for peace and stability, emphasizing the need for careful coordination regarding any withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces from Uvira. Participants warned that an unplanned pullback could spark renewed insecurity and result in loss of life.

Demonstrators later submitted a memorandum to MONUSCO, urging inclusive dialogue and stressing that security should take precedence over political disputes.

The protest highlights deepening divisions in eastern DRC, where control of key territories continues to shift amid ongoing military, political, and humanitarian challenges.