The Southern African Development Community (SADC) on Monday strongly refuted claims by the M23 rebel group and its allies that its mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) was involved in joint military operations.
In a statement, SADC voiced “deep concern” over the accusations, labeling them as “inaccurate and misleading.” The allegations surfaced over the weekend when the M23 and the Congo River Alliance (AFC) asserted that SAMIDRC forces participated in coordinated attacks in the eastern city of Goma, alongside the Congolese army (FARDC), the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), and pro-government Wazalendo militia.
“SAMIDRC has not engaged in any joint operations,” the bloc emphasized, clarifying that its mission is currently undergoing a “structured and coordinated” withdrawal from Congo, following a decision made at the SADC Summit to end its deployment.
SADC reiterated its commitment to previously agreed terms with M23 leaders and expressed continued support for peaceful efforts to stabilize eastern Congo. The organization also urged all groups to avoid spreading misinformation and to prioritize collective actions that promote de-escalation and peace.
Since the start of the year, eastern Congo has faced escalating violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis after fresh offensives by M23 rebels, who have captured key areas in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The Congolese government, along with other parties, accuses Rwanda of backing the rebels — accusations that Kigali denies.
Last month, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met in Doha under Qatari mediation, where they agreed to a ceasefire in an attempt to ease tensions.