The rapid advance of M23 forces—often referred to by their supporters as the “lions” of the movement—has reportedly triggered a retreat by some elements of the FARDC from the strategic town of Uvira toward Kalemie.
According to local sources and videos circulating widely on social media, several soldiers were seen boarding a canoe across Lake Tanganyika to move southward.
In the footage, some soldiers can be heard saying they refuse to “die because of Tshisekedi,” in reference to President Félix Tshisekedi, highlighting growing frustration and low morale within the ranks as the M23 continues its offensive.
The reports, while not independently verified, underscore the volatile security situation in eastern DRC, where clashes between government forces and M23 rebels have intensified in recent weeks.
Uvira, located in South Kivu near the Burundi border and along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is considered a key strategic corridor for trade and military logistics.