GOMA, DR CONGO — The M23 rebel group has openly announced its intention to overthrow the government of Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, signaling a major escalation in the conflict gripping eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement released on February 17, M23, through its political arm Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), urged all political and social groups in the country to unite in what it termed a “constitutional struggle” to free the nation.
The group accused the Tshisekedi administration of corruption, tribalism, authoritarianism, and consolidating national resources under the control of a select few. It also condemned what it described as state-backed crimes, human rights violations, and the marginalization of certain communities, blaming the government for fostering divisions that threaten national stability.
Additionally, M23 called on Congolese leaders and activists living in exile to return and take part in what it described as a nationwide movement for rebuilding the country.
“The future of the Congolese people depends on it,” the communique stated, implying that the rebels were ready to advance beyond their current strongholds in North Kivu and South Kivu toward Kinshasa.
The M23 rebel group has expanded its territorial control, capturing Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, and securing the Rusizi border crossing between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda.
Rebel fighters reportedly stormed key government offices in Bukavu, including the governor’s residence, forcing him to flee. While the Congolese government claims that the army (FARDC) and Wazalendo militias have reclaimed the city, M23 continues to release images showing its fighters holding positions in the city center and key installations.
As tensions escalate, President Félix Tshisekedi convened a high-level security meeting at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa, urging African leaders to take action against Rwanda, which he accuses of backing the rebels. He also secured diplomatic backing from France, Belgium, and Germany, which have condemned Kigali’s alleged role in the conflict and are pushing for sanctions.
A pivotal moment in the crisis
With M23 openly vowing to overthrow Tshisekedi’s government, the conflict has entered a critical phase. While the rebels claim to be fighting for constitutional reform, their military gains suggest an attempt to establish a rival administration in eastern DRC before advancing toward Kinshasa.
The Congolese government, with support from Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces, has pledged to crush the rebellion and restore control. However, M23 has ignored international demands for a ceasefire.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently urged Tshisekedi to broker an immediate truce, while UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy directly called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from Congolese territory. Despite these diplomatic efforts, the situation on the ground remains highly volatile.
“The advance of M23 and the Rwandan Defence Force into Bukavu is a violation of DRC’s sovereignty. Rwanda must withdraw its troops. The UK calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and return to dialogue via African-led peace processes. There can be no military solution,” Lammy said.
Despite international pressure and government resistance, M23 rebels continue to strengthen their hold on key territories, signaling that the battle for control of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is far from over.
With each strategic gain, the rebels are consolidating their influence, raising concerns that the conflict could escalate further.
As the Congolese government vows to push back with the support of regional allies, the standoff between Kinshasa and M23 remains a high-stakes struggle with no clear resolution in sight.
