The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23), an armed coalition opposing the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has announced it will withdraw its forces from the city of Uvira, only days after taking control of the area.
The decision was communicated in a statement released late on Monday night, December 16, 2025, and signed by the group’s coordinator, Corneille Nangaa.
AFC/M23 said the move was taken at the request of the United States as part of efforts to support ongoing peace initiatives.
The group linked the withdrawal to the peace talks currently underway in Doha, Qatar, as well as to an agreement signed on December 15, 2025, aimed at easing tensions and creating conditions for dialogue.
According to AFC/M23, the decision reflects its stated commitment to the peace process, despite what it described as continued hostile actions by the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and allied militias, including Wazalendo groups.
The coalition noted that previous withdrawals from contested areas have often been followed by renewed military advances and security incidents, raising concerns about the sustainability of such measures. It warned that without clear safeguards, vacated areas could once again become flashpoints for violence.
As a result, AFC/M23 called for firm mechanisms to be put in place to administer Uvira during the transition, ensure the protection of civilians and key infrastructure, and closely monitor the implementation of the ceasefire.
The group also urged the deployment of neutral security forces to maintain stability in the city, arguing that an impartial presence would help build confidence among all parties involved in the peace process.
In addition, AFC/M23 raised concerns over the continued presence of Burundian troops on Congolese territory, stating that areas it considers liberated should not be converted into bases for foreign forces. It warned that such a scenario could destabilize the region and strain relations between neighboring countries.
