The Democratic Republic of Congo’s military court has issued an international arrest warrant for Corneille Nangaa, leader of the M23 rebel group, state media reported Wednesday.
Nangaa, formerly head of the country’s Electoral Commission and now leading the Congo River Alliance—a coalition that includes the M23—is accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and insurrection.
In August, he was sentenced to death for similar offenses linked to the M23’s attacks in North Kivu in November 2021. Authorities allege that Nangaa, with backing from Rwanda, has been responsible for mass killings in North Kivu and more recently in South Kivu, acts that violate both Congolese and international law.
The military court has ordered his arrest, demanding that he be brought back to Congolese territory.
A separate arrest warrant has also been issued for Jean-Jacques Mamba, a former national deputy from Lukunga district. Mamba, once affiliated with the Movement for the Liberation of the Congo, joined the AFC rebel movement after losing the December 2023 elections.
Violence escalated in Goma two weeks ago when M23 launched a major offensive against government forces, forcing thousands to flee—including staff from international organizations like the UN and the World Bank. Reports indicate that approximately 2,900 people have been killed in clashes between the M23 and Congolese troops.
On Monday, the M23 declared a ceasefire after battling for control of Goma. However, heavy fighting resumed Wednesday, with reports suggesting the rebels have seized Nyabibwe city.
The Congolese government has dismissed the M23’s ceasefire announcement as “deceptive,” vowing to reclaim Goma.