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The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has accused M23 fighters operating with the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) of forcing civilians to take part in organised marches in several eastern parts of the country.
According to a statement released by Congo authorities on Tuesday, the marches took place in Uvira, Kamanyola, Goma, Bukavu, and Sake between December 16 and 23.
The government accused M23 and the Rwandan Defence Forces of forcing women and youth to take part in the demonstrations, calling the practice “a political and psychological manipulation of local communities” and likening it to “collective hostage-taking”.
“Any attempt to use Congolese civilians as human shields or as instruments of propaganda to legitimise an occupation imposed by an aggressor State constitutes a grave violation of national sovereignty and a blatant crime against human dignity,” the statement said.
It warned that those responsible would face severe consequences and would not go unpunished.
The Congolese government also reiterated its determination to protect civilian populations, to fully restore state authority across the national territory, and to bring the perpetrators and sponsors of these violations of human rights and republican values to justice.
“The Government commends the courage of the population who continue to resist enemy manipulation and calls on all Congolese citizens to remain vigilant, united, and confident in national institutions and in the Armed Forces of the Republic, which are tirelessly working to defend the nation, ensure the security of its people, and preserve peace,” it added.
“Finally, the Government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the ongoing peace processes, aimed at securing a lasting return of peace, stability, and development in the eastern part of the country and throughout the Great Lakes region.”
