In a communiqué released this evening, February 22, 2025, the AFC/M23 has reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace efforts while condemning the Congolese government’s reliance on mercenaries and militias.
The movement has decided to aligned itself with the resolutions of the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the African Union (AU), calling for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.
“The Congolese government has chosen military escalation over dialogue, relying on foreign mercenaries and unregulated militias to fight its battles,” the communiqué states. This statement challenges President Félix Tshisekedi’s approach to the crisis, portraying him as unwilling to pursue a peaceful resolution.
By endorsing regional frameworks for negotiations, AFC/M23 positions itself as a legitimate political actor rather than an insurgent group. This move puts pressure on Kinshasa, which has repeatedly refused to engage with the movement, insisting instead on a military solution.
At the same time, AFC/M23 continues to consolidate support in eastern Congo, where it claims to protect marginalized communities abandoned by the Congolese state. The group’s ability to maintain both military strength and political legitimacy strengthens its position in any future negotiations.
Meanwhile, the movement remains prepared for further hostilities. While calling for dialogue, AFC/M23 warns that it will not stand by as government forces continue their offensives. This strategy ensures that the movement remains in control of both the military and political dimensions of the conflict.
For Tshisekedi, the options are becoming increasingly limited. He can either engage in talks—implicitly recognizing AFC/M23’s role—or continue military operations that have so far failed to bring stability. The longer Kinshasa delays, the more advantageous the situation becomes for AFC/M23.
By navigating both the battlefield and the diplomatic arena, the movement has secured a tactical advantage that forces Kinshasa to rethink its strategy.