M23 Rebels Blamed for Civilians' Deaths Despite Peace Efforts

Authorities in Congo have reported that at least 80 individuals have lost their lives in recent weeks due to violence attributed to the RDF/M23-AFC coalition, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts spearheaded by Qatar aimed at restoring peace in the region. The military condemned the brutal killings, which included a mass assault in the village of Nyaborongo on August 4, as well as an attack in Lumbishi on July 24 that resulted in the deaths of six civilians, including two children.

The escalating violence raises concerns regarding the effectiveness of the Qatar-led peace talks, which aim to establish a permanent agreement by August 18. A key condition of this agreement involves ensuring the safety of civilians and the return of millions of internally displaced individuals affected by the ongoing conflict.

While the M23 group has not replied directly to the latest accusations, earlier this month, the United Nations’ human rights chief reported that M23 militants were responsible for the deaths of 319 people in the region over the previous month, marking one of the deadliest periods since their resurgence in 2022. These attacks, as detailed by Volker Türk, targeted several villages in the North Kivu province between early and mid-July.

In response to the allegations, M23 has refuted the claims, labeling the UN's findings as politically motivated and unsubstantiated. They assert that these accusations misrepresent the situation and undermine the integrity of UN institutions. Lawrence Kanyuka, a spokesperson for the Congo River Alliance, which encompasses M23, called for an independent investigation into the matter, hoping that those who reported on it would participate in this inquiry.

The M23 has previously captured significant urban areas in eastern Congo with support from Rwandan forces, which has intensified the conflict in a region already plagued by turmoil. Amidst the violence, a declaration of principles was signed by both parties on July 19 in Qatar, aiming to pave the way for a thorough peace agreement that focuses on reestablishing governmental control in the eastern territories currently under insurgent control.