The AFC/M23 rebel group, which opposes the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has officially begun withdrawing its forces from the city of Uvira as part of efforts to support political dialogue and promote lasting peace in the region.
Uvira was captured by AFC/M23 forces on December 9, 2025, following the expulsion of FARDC troops, Burundian forces stationed in the city, and allied groups, including Wazalendo and FDLR.
The takeover of the city sparked immediate concern and strong international pressure, with humanitarian organizations, European countries, and the United States condemning the deteriorating security situation in eastern Congo.
In a statement released on December 16, 2025, AFC/M23 announced that it had agreed to withdraw from Uvira following a request from U.S. mediators, aimed at establishing a political pathway to resolve the conflict.
Starting on the night of Wednesday, December 17, 2025, AFC/M23 troops began leaving the city.
Bertrand Bisimwa, leader of M23, posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the withdrawal operation is expected to be completed by December 18, 2025.
He said:
“The withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces from Uvira is ongoing and will be completed by tomorrow. We call on civilians to remain calm, and we urge mediators and other partners to do everything possible to ensure that Uvira is protected from violence, attacks, and the misuse of weapons.”
Despite the withdrawal, AFC/M23 expressed concerns based on past experiences, noting that its trust-building efforts have previously been undermined by FARDC troops, Wazalendo forces, and other partners, who reportedly reoccupied areas that had been handed over and targeted civilians suspected of supporting the group.
For this reason, AFC/M23 has called on international mediators to establish clear measures for maintaining security in Uvira after their departure, including the removal of weapons from the city, protection of civilians and critical infrastructure, and impartial monitoring of the ceasefire by neutral forces.
