In Kanyabayonga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Innocent Kasereka, a 30-year-old man, sits in a hospital with his neck bandaged after being attacked in the conflict between the Congolese armed forces and M23 rebels. The attack took place at a coffee plantation in Kibirizi, which had been seized by M23 and the Rwandan army. Despite assurances of safety from M23, Kasereka and his friend were attacked by individuals in M23 uniform, leading to injuries and death. The Congolese army’s attempt to retake Kibirizi resulted in collateral damage and an inability to regain control, leaving residents vulnerable to M23’s attacks.
Many people have been killed in similar conflicts in towns near Kibirizi, with M23 being held responsible for massacres by the United Nations. Kasereka is recovering in a hospital in Kanyabayonga, alongside an 18-year-old fighter wounded during the conflict. The FARDC and Wazalendo armed groups have been facing difficulties in achieving victory against M23, leading to concerns about the well-being and morale of their fighters. Lack of resources, non-payment of rations, and low morale among soldiers are contributing to the challenges faced by the armed groups in the region.
The spokesperson for FPP/AP, a prominent armed group in the area, criticized the FARDC for failing to fulfill agreements with armed groups, resulting in repeated withdrawals and failures in battle. The deteriorating conditions and lack of support for soldiers have further weakened the armed groups’ ability to confront M23 effectively. Kanyabayonga has become a refuge for displaced people fleeing the fighting and abuses by M23 rebels. However, fears of potential bombings and concerns about collaboration between certain FARDC officers and rebels are causing tension and unease in the region.
Civil society leaders in Kibirizi, Kanyabayonga, and Kishishe have raised concerns about the complicity of some FARDC officers in aiding the rebels. Investigations into these allegations have been initiated, but impunity and lack of accountability continue to hinder efforts to maintain peace and security in the region. With a new offensive launched by the Congolese armed forces and Wazalendo fighters in Kibirizi, tensions are escalating, and the possibility of renewed conflict looms large. The potential for a confrontation between armed groups and the FARDC is causing residents to consider taking up arms themselves to defend their communities.
