The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) has accused the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) of undermining ongoing peace efforts by carrying out military operations, including drone strikes, in civilian-populated areas of Minembwe in South Kivu Province.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, the group alleged that coalition forces aligned with Kinshasa launched heavy attacks using drones in densely populated areas, causing panic and trauma among civilians.
AFC/M23 said the attacks are a sign of deliberate disregard for the peace process and warned that such actions risk derailing ongoing negotiations.
“The Kinshasa authorities have deliberately chosen to undermine the anticipated peace talks. These attacks on civilians are a clear indication of a lack of commitment to the negotiation process,” Kanyuka said.
The group further claimed that the military operations are intended to weaken its position and exert pressure ahead of the talks, instead of pursuing a diplomatic solution.
The accusations come amid planned peace negotiations between representatives of the DRC government and AFC/M23, now expected to take place in Switzerland after being relocated from Doha, Qatar, due to security concerns in the Middle East.
Despite both sides expressing willingness to engage in dialogue, continued military operations involving the Congolese army (FARDC), Burundian forces, and allied armed groups, including Wazalendo and FDLR, in the highlands of Minembwe have raised concerns over the prospects for a sustainable ceasefire.
Analysts warn that failure to address the allegations could erode trust and undermine the credibility of the peace process.
The Congolese government has yet to issue a detailed response to the claims, but has consistently denied targeting civilians, maintaining that its military operations are aimed at neutralizing armed groups threatening national security.
