M23 Demands Withdrawal of Burundian Forces from Bukavu
But in perhaps what could point at tension and that the capture of Bukavu is far from over, the M23 urged the citizens to form local vigilance committees to maintain security.
The M23 group, under the banner of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), has called for the immediate withdrawal of Burundian National Defence Forces (FNDB) from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, citing their presence as unjustified and accusing them of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
In a communique issued on February 15, 2025, Lawrence Kanyuka, the AFC/M23’s communication focal person, said the Burundian military operations were a contributing factor to ethnic cleansing and mass atrocities.
“The military operations conducted by these forces in the DRC have exacerbated ethnic cleansing, mass atrocities, and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, posing a serious threat to the local population,” said Kanyuka.
“It is therefore imperative that they leave DR Congo without delay.”
The demand comes after M23 took positions in Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu and the second biggest city in eastern DR Congo after Goma that is now under the control of the rebels.
But in perhaps what could point at tension and that the capture of Bukavu is far from over, the M23 urged the citizens to form local vigilance committees to maintain security.
"We call on the population to remain in control of their city and not give in to panic," Kanyuka said.
The statement detailed how the M23 rebels seized control of Kavumu Airport on February 14 to prevent the FARDC and its allies, including the FNDB, the FDLR, and the Wazalendo militia, from using the facility as a base for launching attacks against civilians.
Kanyuka accused these forces of bombing villages in Kalehe and Ihusi earlier in the week, resulting in heavy civilian casualties.
“This seizure was a necessary step to protect civilian populations who have been subjected to relentless airstrikes by the FARDC and its allies,” Kanyuka asserted, adding that the group remains committed to defending the people of Bukavu against further atrocities.
Following a reported defeat, the FARDC and its allies were said to have retreated in disarray, abandoning Bukavu after engaging in looting and abuses against civilians.
The AFC/M23 called on residents to organise local vigilance committees to ensure security and maintain control of the city.
“We urge the people of Bukavu to appoint honest and responsible individuals to lead them and to remain calm amidst these challenges,” Kanyuka emphasised.
The eastern DR Congo has been plagued by conflict for decades, with multiple armed groups, including the M23, vying for control over resources and strategic territories.
The involvement of foreign forces, such as the FNDB, has further complicated the situation.
Burundi has justified its presence in the region as part of a bilateral agreement to combat armed groups threatening its borders.
However, human rights organisations have accused the FNDB of committing atrocities against civilians, heightening tensions between communities and armed groups in the volatile Ruzizi Plain and surrounding areas.
The international community has repeatedly called for a diplomatic solution to end the violence, with the United Nations urging dialogue between the Congolese government and rebel factions.
The United Nations estimates that millions of people have been displaced by the ongoing conflict, with Bukavu and its surrounding areas among the hardest-hit regions.
The AFC/M23 has reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining order in areas under its control. However, questions remain over whether the group’s actions will lead to greater stability or exacerbate the already fragile security situation in eastern DR Congo.
Kanyuka concluded the statement by warning against “fraudulent solicitations and fake news spread by the Kinshasa regime,” a claim that reflects the deep mistrust between rebel factions and the Congolese government.
The Burundian government has yet to respond to the M23’s demands, but observers believe their withdrawal would significantly impact the balance of power in the region.
For related updates, stay tuned as the situation in the DRC evolves.
