In a statement released over the weekend, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the DRC government had undertaken a 'massive and provocative deployment of troops and military equipment' along the frontlines, with support from allied forces including the National Defence Force of Burundi.
The group claimed that heavy weapons were being deliberately aimed at densely populated areas, calling the move 'criminally irresponsible' and suggesting it borders on a crime against humanity.
'The illegitimate regime in Kinshasa is showing blatant disregard for ongoing negotiations,' the statement read. 'These belligerent actions are a direct insult to the diplomatic process and sabotage efforts to address the root causes of the conflict.'
AFC/M23, which has previously expressed willingness to engage in dialogue, said it had honoured its commitments under current peace frameworks, but accused the Congolese government of failing to uphold its part, particularly regarding confidence-building measures.
'This duplicity is unacceptable,' the group said, while reaffirming its 'unwavering commitment' to political dialogue as a path to resolving the crisis.
However, it warned that the continued military build-up posed a direct threat to civilian populations and that the group reserves the 'legitimate right' to defend its positions and protect communities under threat.
AFC/M23 controls large swathes of eastern DRC, and efforts have been made by Qatar to resolve the conflict and silence the guns in the region.
However, the group has accused President Félix Tshisekedi's administration of undermining the process. While attempts to revive peace talks are ongoing, the situation remains fragile.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
