In a strongly worded statement issued on April 12, the group accused SAMIDRC troops of participating in a joint military operation alongside the Congolese army (FARDC), the FDLR militia, and the Wazalendo group in an attempt to retake Goma, which has been under rebel control since January.
The group said the offensive, launched on the night of April 11, was decisively repelled by its forces. It also demanded the immediate withdrawal of SADC forces from Congo and the surrender of Congolese soldiers stationed within United Nations mission facilities.
'The attacks… violate the existing SADC agreements and delay the rehabilitation of Goma Airport,' said AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka.
'We demand the immediate withdrawal of SAMIDRC forces and the surrender of FARDC troops stationed within MONUSCO facilities.'
The breach comes just weeks after the rebels and SAMIDRC troops signed an agreement on March 28 to facilitate the peaceful withdrawal of regional forces following their defeat and the rebels' takeover of Goma."
Negotiated in Goma, the deal outlined the immediate and orderly withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops, allowing them to leave with their weapons and equipment, while stipulating that any FARDC arms in their possession be left behind.
The accord also included plans for SADC to support the rehabilitation of Goma International Airport and conduct a joint technical assessment to ensure its operational readiness for troop withdrawal.
However, the recent clashes have raised doubts over the future of the ceasefire and the credibility of the withdrawal process.
'The AFC/M23 reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protect and defend the civilian population, in all its diversity, whatever the cost,' the rebel group said, while warning it may be forced to reconsider its stance if provocations persist.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
