Southern African bloc denies M23 claims of involvement in joint operations in DR Congo

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) on Monday strongly denied claims made by the M23 rebel group and its allies, alleging that the SADC's mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) participated in joint military operations in the eastern city of Goma.

The SADC expressed “deep concern” over the accusations, which had suggested SAMIDRC's involvement in military actions alongside the Congolese military (FARDC), the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), and the pro-government Wazalendo militia.

In a statement, the SADC clarified that SAMIDRC had not taken part in any joint operations as alleged, calling these claims "inaccurate and misleading." The bloc reaffirmed that SAMIDRC is in the process of carrying out a “structured and coordinated” withdrawal from Congo, in accordance with the decision made by the SADC Summit to terminate the SAMIDRC mission's mandate.

The SADC also reiterated its commitment to supporting peaceful efforts for lasting stability in eastern Congo and its agreements with the M23 leadership. It urged all parties involved to “act responsibly, refrain from spreading misinformation, and work together to de-escalate tensions and restore peace in the region.”

Since January, eastern Congo has been embroiled in a security and humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by a renewed offensive from the M23 rebel group, which has captured significant territory in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu.

The DRC, along with other nations, accuses neighboring Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, though Rwanda has consistently denied these allegations. In March, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame met unexpectedly in Doha, where Qatar's emir mediated talks that led to calls for a ceasefire.

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