The March 23 Movement (M23), a dominant force in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the past year, is publicly advocating for a federal system of governance rather than secession, according to a recent statement. This shift in stated objectives comes as the group continues to control significant territory in North Kivu province, including areas near the city of Goma, and amid ongoing international pressure. The move signals an attempt to reframe its aims and potentially broaden support within the DRC and internationally.
The advocacy for federalism, a system where power is divided between a central government and regional authorities, represents a significant development in the M23’s public positioning. For decades, eastern DRC has been a region plagued by instability, and the M23’s emergence in late 2021 has exacerbated the existing challenges, displacing hundreds of thousands of people. Understanding the group’s evolving goals is crucial to navigating the complex political landscape of the region. The group operates primarily in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, bordering Uganda and Rwanda, according to Wikipedia.
M23’s Defense of Ties with Rwanda
Alongside its call for federalism, M23 is also defending its cooperation with Rwanda, urging international partners to continue investing in the region despite ongoing security concerns. This defense is particularly noteworthy given repeated accusations from the DRC government and international observers of Rwandan support for the rebel group. The United Nations has documented evidence of Rwandan military involvement in supporting M23, a claim Rwanda consistently denies. The relationship with Rwanda remains a central point of contention and scrutiny.
The EastAfrican reported just days ago on life in Goma under M23 control, noting the continued activity at markets like Kituku on the shores of Lake Kivu. This suggests a degree of normalcy persists even under rebel administration, though reports from organizations like The Novel Humanitarian paint a more concerning picture of a “bona fide police state” focused on security to the detriment of other essential services.
Recent Diplomatic Efforts and Ongoing Violence
Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict are underway, with Qatar facilitating discussions between the Congolese government and M23. On February 2, 2026, the Congolese authorities and M23 signed a document outlining the terms of reference for a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism under the Doha Framework Agreement, initially signed in November 2025. Separate discussions have also taken place between the DRC and Rwanda, mediated by the United States, resulting in the Washington Agreements in December. However, the United Nations warns that despite this diplomatic momentum, the security situation on the ground remains volatile and continues to deteriorate.
In January 2025, M23 seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu, and weeks later captured Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu. Since then, the rebels have established parallel administrations in areas under their control. The UN continues to allege that M23 is supported by the Rwandan armed forces, allegations Kigali has repeatedly denied.
The History of M23 and its Resurgence
M23 first gained prominence during a 2012-2013 rebellion before resurfacing in late 2021. Described as a Congolese Rwandan-backed rebel paramilitary group, its recent territorial gains have significantly destabilized eastern DRC. The group has framed its actions as a liberation for communities long neglected and repressed by state authorities and other armed groups. However, reports indicate widespread human rights abuses, including summary executions and forced labor, under M23 control. The New Humanitarian’s reporting, based on interviews with Congolese journalists, reveals a pattern of taxation and control imposed by the rebels.
What comes next for eastern DRC remains uncertain. Whereas diplomatic talks offer a glimmer of hope, the continued volatility on the ground and the unresolved accusations of external support for M23 pose significant challenges to achieving lasting peace. The international community will be closely watching the implementation of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism and the progress of further negotiations between the DRC and Rwanda.
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