He made the remarks on 8 February 2026 while addressing 7,532 newly trained AFC/M23 commandos who had completed their training at the Tshanzu military camp in Rutshuru Territory, North Kivu Province.
According to Makenga, the country has been taken hostage by leaders who have undermined state institutions and contributed to widespread suffering among civilians. He argued that government actions have driven many Congolese into exile, while others remain displaced within the country.
He said the movement took up arms to confront what it considers systemic failures in governance and told the graduates that this objective is the reason they are being deployed to join ongoing operations.
Makenga also said the fighters have a responsibility to help facilitate the return of Congolese refugees, both those abroad and those internally displaced, and to contribute to rebuilding a country with a professional army, respected citizens, and restored national standing.
The AFC/M23 coalition stated that the recruits underwent commando-style training similar to that provided to thousands who joined the movement in September and October 2025.
Their training included close-combat techniques and other field combat skills.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/maj-gen-makenga-says-drc-is-misruled-calls-for-its-liberation
