More than 9,350 new recruits from across the Democratic Republic of Congo officially joined M23 or the Congolese Revolutionary Army (ARC) on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, during a large graduation ceremony held in Tchanzu, North Kivu Province.
The event marked the completion of several months of intensive military training that included live firing exercises, close combat techniques, martial arts, tactical maneuvers, and tightly synchronized military parades.
The ceremony was filled with energy and enthusiasm as the new recruits marched, chanted, and saluted in unison, echoing the powerful rhythm of Kiswahili – the language in which the drills and commands were conducted.
Kiswahili, widely recognized as the military language of the East African region, remains the traditional command language for most revolutionary movements, unlike in Rwanda, where the national army has now shifted to Kinyarwanda to symbolize a new generation beyond revolutionary roots.
General Makenga, the defacto Chief of Defense Staff of the ARC, presided over the event and commended the new soldiers for their endurance, commitment, and discipline. Note that M23 is now AFC/M23 (ARC). AFC stands for the political wing while ARC stands for the military wing.
“You represent the spirit of a rising revolutionary force,” Gen Makenga he said. “You are ready to defend the nation and restore the dignity of the Congolese people.”
Gen Makenga, who addressed the recruits in Kiswahili, delivered a charged and emotional speech that reinforced the doctrine of discipline, nationalism, and integrity that defines the ARC.
“From this day forward, you are officially part of the Congolese Revolutionary Army,” he declared. “You are soldiers of the ARC, the army of liberation, an army that fights to bring change to this country.”
He sharply criticized the government in Kinshasa, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, accusing it of having destroyed the nation, looted its resources, and caused immense suffering among civilians.
“Our people have lived under destruction and oppression for too long,” he said. “That is why the M23/ARC rose up—to end bad governance and bring change to our nation.”
He called on the recruits to uphold the highest standards of discipline and moral conduct, warning that corruption, tribalism, substance use, and sexual violence would never be tolerated within the ARC. 
“Reject all negative attitudes,” he said. “Avoid stupidity, tribalism, theft, and corruption. Wherever you go, the people must see you as liberators, not bandits. Their respect will depend on your behavior.”
The commander also reminded the soldiers of the heavy responsibility they carry as the new face of the ARC. “This mission is not easy,” he said. “It requires patience, exemplary discipline, and total dedication to your country and to the Congolese people, who have suffered so much. You will be respected not by what you take, but by what you protect.”
The recruits responded with synchronized chants of “Yes, Afande,” their voices rising across the parade ground, reflecting both conviction and pride. The atmosphere captured the essence of the ARC’s revolutionary doctrine — unity, obedience, and service to the nation.
Observers noted that this ceremony, coming just weeks after the graduation of another 7,000 commandos from the FARDC, underscores the growing capacity and organization of the ARC.
The movement continues to portray itself as a disciplined, nationalist force seeking to protect the people, defend the homeland, and rebuild a new Congo — strong, united, and respected.
Afande Makenga concluded the ceremony by reminding the new soldiers that true liberation begins with character. “Discipline is our strength, loyalty is our weapon, and the people are our reason to fight,” he said, before officially welcoming them into the ranks of the ARC.
