M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo have accused the government coalition of violating a humanitarian ceasefire facilitated by the United States. They claim that Kinshasa has detained thousands of displaced individuals and failed to honor the July 5 truce, which was intended to support humanitarian efforts and allow the return of internally displaced people (IDPs).
According to M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, the coalition forces have not respected the truce and have instead carried out several targeted attacks on rebel-held regions in Bweremana, Ruzintaka, Kirumba, Matembe (Kaseghe), and Masisi. On July 17, the US announced that the parties involved had agreed to extend the humanitarian truce for another 15 days.
Kanyuka stated that M23 is calling for an assessment at the end of the second truce, along with further assurances from the international community. He criticized the Kinshasa regime for not showing genuine commitment to the truce, which it reportedly promotes as a diplomatic success in the media.
Kanyuka emphasized that M23 feels obligated to protect civilians in North Kivu, Ituri, and other regions suffering under the Kinshasa regime’s rule. He also noted that while the Congolese government insists on a military solution to the conflict, the rebels are open to direct and transparent political negotiations.
The Congolese government coalition includes the FDLR, a UN-sanctioned militia with links to the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, along with forces from the Southern African Development Community, Burundian troops, local youth groups, and European mercenaries.
Eastern DR Congo has experienced instability for nearly thirty years and is home to over 200 local and foreign armed groups.