Walikale Civil Society Urges Immediate FARDC Deployment After AFC/M23 Withdrawal

Walikale, North Kivu, July 14, 2026 - Civil society leaders in Walikale Territory have called on the Congolese government to urgently deploy the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) to several villages in the Ikobo area following the announced withdrawal of AFC/M23 fighters, warning that the move could represent a tactical repositioning rather than a genuine retreat. The appeal concerns the villages of Buleusa, Kateku, Bukumbirwa, and Rusamambu, where local civil society believes a rapid military deployment is necessary to secure the area and facilitate the safe return of thousands of displaced families who fled the fighting. Despite reports that AFC/M23 forces have withdrawn from parts of Ikobo, civil society leaders remain skeptical about the rebels' intentions. They argue that the withdrawal may be part of a broader strategy to regroup and reinforce positions ahead of future military operations elsewhere in North and South Kivu. Local representatives warned against allowing a security vacuum to emerge, stressing that the absence of government forces could enable armed groups to reoccupy the abandoned areas or allow other militias to establish a presence. Civil society also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements, emphasizing that community cooperation remains essential while security conditions remain uncertain. The call comes just days after AFC/M23 fighters reportedly pulled back from several localities in the Ikobo area. Although the development has raised hopes for the gradual return of displaced populations, local leaders maintain that lasting security can only be achieved through a sustained FARDC presence capable of preventing renewed violence. As authorities consider their response, thousands of displaced residents continue to await conditions that would allow them to return safely to their communities, while local civil society organizations continue to advocate for stronger security measures to stabilize this part of Walikale Territory.