The Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo (AFC/M23) has strongly denied allegations by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government that Rwandan troops are present in the country. In a statement, AFC/M23 described the claims as "lies" and accused the Kinshasa government of pursuing a policy of discrimination, segregation, and exclusion. The group emphasized that the presence of Rwandan troops in Congo is not a fact and that the DRC government's claims are aimed at diverting attention from its own failures.
AFC/M23 also condemned the DRC government's treatment of Congolese citizens who speak Kinyarwanda, saying they are being labeled as Rwandans and subjected to arbitrary arrests and detention. The group argued that this practice is based on a flawed assumption that speaking Kinyarwanda or Swahili makes one a foreigner or a Rwandan. According to AFC/M23, the DRC government's actions are divisive and risk exacerbating existing social tensions in the country.
The conflict in eastern DRC has been fueled by long-standing ethnic and regional tensions, with various armed groups vying for control of the region's resources. AFC/M23, a rebel group that has been active in the region for several years, has accused the DRC government of using divisive rhetoric to mobilize support against its opponents. The group warned that such tactics could lead to further instability and violence in the region.
AFC/M23 also expressed concern about reports of external support for various armed groups in the region, including allegations of foreign backing for the DRC government. The group warned that such interference could escalate the conflict and undermine efforts to find a peaceful solution. According to AFC/M23, the international community should support a negotiated settlement to the conflict rather than fueling the fighting.
The DRC government has long been accused of discriminating against Congolese citizens who speak Kinyarwanda or Swahili, often labeling them as Rwandans or foreigners. AFC/M23 argued that such practices are unjust and undermine the principles of citizenship and equality enshrined in the DRC's constitution. The group called on the DRC government to recognize the diversity of its population and to promote inclusive policies that respect the rights of all citizens.
AFC/M23 emphasized that the DRC is a country with a rich cultural and linguistic heritage, with many different ethnic groups and languages. The group argued that this diversity should be celebrated and protected, rather than used as a pretext for exclusion or discrimination. According to AFC/M23, all Congolese citizens, regardless of their language or ethnicity, have the right to equal treatment and respect.
In conclusion, AFC/M23 reiterated its commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern DRC, based on dialogue and negotiation rather than force or coercion. The group called on the DRC government to respect the rights of all its citizens, including those who speak Kinyarwanda or Swahili, and to work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society.
Key points
- AFC/M23 denies Rwandan troops in Congo, condemns Kinshasa's discrimination against Congolese speaking Kinyarwanda.
