Corneille Nangaa, the coordinator of the Allied Forces for the Liberation of Congo (AFC) and the M23 rebel movement, announced Thursday that more than 7,400 soldiers from the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) have defected to join his coalition.
Nangaa described the defections as a step toward the “total liberation” of the country from corruption and tribalism.
He said the defectors, organized into four brigades, were recruited in Goma and have completed seven months of training.
“We will not stop. Do not be deceived into thinking we are asleep,” Nangaa said, pledging to continue the fight against systemic issues facing the nation.
The rebel leader also revealed plans to train an additional 12,000 recruits under a new Congolese Revolutionary Army (ARC), which he said would eventually replace the FARDC.
Speaking to the press shortly after the pass out, he said that. “This will be our new army. An army that knows how to fight, protect the land, provide security, and defend the nation of Congo.”
He added that the FARDC would be integrated into the ARC, describing the move as necessary for Congo’s freedom, not a betrayal.
The announcement comes amid reports of heavy casualties in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, with Nangaa citing the deaths of thousands of M23 fighters.
Analysts say the defections and plans for the ARC could signal an escalation in fighting, particularly in North Kivu, where thousands have been displaced.
DRC officials have not publicly responded to Nangaa’s speech.
Meanwhile, the United Nations and African Union have continuously called for de-escalation, citing concerns over a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The situation remains tense as Congo braces for further escalation.
