The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has firmly rejected any possibility of dialogue with the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group, despite recent overtures from the militia. DRC’s Defense Minister Guy Kabombo issued a decisive statement on Thursday, instructing that any plans or discussions regarding negotiations with M23 be scrapped immediately.
This declaration comes amid heightened tensions as M23 claims to have seized control of Goma, a crucial city in eastern DRC. Corneille Nangaa, political leader of the Congo River Alliance (AFC), a faction allied with M23, announced the group’s willingness to engage in direct talks with the DRC government. However, President Felix Tshisekedi has doubled down on his commitment to reclaiming all occupied territories, vowing a “vigorous response” against the rebels.
The situation has further strained DRC-Rwanda relations. Last Saturday, the DRC government recalled its diplomats from Rwanda and ordered Rwandan diplomats to cease all consular activities within 48 hours. DRC has long accused Rwanda of backing M23, an allegation that Rwanda denies. In turn, Kigali has accused DRC’s military of collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a group allegedly linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
As part of diplomatic efforts, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot visited Kinshasa on Thursday, meeting with President Tshisekedi as a representative of French President Emmanuel Macron. While details of their discussions remain undisclosed, Barrot later traveled to Rwanda, highlighting France’s efforts to mediate in the escalating conflict.
The conflict in eastern DRC, particularly in North Kivu province, has worsened despite regional peace efforts. The M23 rebel group, which was previously dormant, resurfaced in 2021 and has since intensified its military operations. The latest reports indicate that M23 fighters are advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, raising fears of further displacement and humanitarian crises.
Regional blocs, including the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU), continue to push for dialogue to prevent further hostilities. However, with the DRC government refusing to engage with M23, the possibility of a peaceful resolution remains uncertain.
As the conflict unfolds, the international community watches closely, with fears that continued fighting could destabilize the entire Great Lakes region. Meanwhile, President Tshisekedi remains resolute in his military response, determined to reclaim control over eastern DRC and restore national sovereignty.
