U.S. Lawmakers Urge DRC to Dismantle FDLR as Condition for Rwanda Security Withdrawal

WASHINGTON, February 11, 2026 - Members of the U.S. House of Representatives Africa Subcommittee have reminded the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo that Rwanda is expected to lift its security measures only after the dismantling of the FDLR.

In a statement issued on February 10, Congresswoman Sara Jacobs said that despite a U.S.-brokered peace arrangement between Kigali and Kinshasa, reports indicate elements of the Congolese army continue cooperating with the armed group.

“On the part of the DRC military, in violation of the peace agreement, it is said to continue working with the FDLR, a group founded by leaders who organized the 1994 genocide in Rwanda,” she said.

Subcommittee chairman Chris Smith emphasized that Rwanda’s commitment to remove defensive measures depends on full implementation of the agreement’s provisions, particularly the neutralization of the militia.

“The Washington Peace Agreement includes a four-stage action plan agreed to by both parties. This is essential for Rwanda to withdraw its forces, but only if the DRC follows through on a comprehensive plan to dismantle the FDLR,” he said.

Lawmakers also warned that the genocidal ideology associated with the group remains a security concern for Rwanda and areas under control of the AFC/M23, urging efforts to mobilize combatants to disarm.

Kigali has already launched reintegration initiatives through the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission, including the Isange mu Banyu program encouraging Rwandan fighters in eastern Congo to return home.

Authorities, local residents and former rebels have continued awareness campaigns in the forests of eastern Congo, particularly targeting fighters originating from Rubavu District, which officials say accounts for a majority of returnees.

In November 2025, the commission’s vice president Jacques Nziza noted that about 70 percent of former FDLR members who repatriated came from that region, explaining why the area remains central to demobilization efforts.