news 29 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
M23 Rebels Describe Withdrawal from Eastern DR Congo Positions as Strategic Force Rotation
M23/AFC rebels have clarified that their recent pullouts from positions in North and South Kivu provinces are part of a planned strategic rotation, not a retreat. The moves have allowed FARDC and Wazalendo forces to reoccupy the areas amid ongoing peace efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/m23-rebels-claim-strategic-rotation-as-they-withdraw-from-eastern-dr-congo-positions-5407396
M23/AFC rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have pulled back from several positions, insisting the action represents a tactical redeployment of troops rather than a defeat.
These withdrawals began early last week, with fighters leaving sites like Kitsumbiro, Kipese, Katondi, Munyakondomi, Ivatama, Ilambula, Luseke, and Musimba—spots 15 to 25 km from Lubero Centre in Lubero Territory. Additional retreats occurred from Pitakongo and Bunyatenge near Kirumba, plus Mpety in Walikale Territory.
FARDC soldiers and allied Wazalendo coalition quickly advanced to secure the vacated zones.
In a Sunday statement, M23/AFC spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka emphasized that the operations involve a standard rotation of Congolese Revolutionary Army (ARC) units. He reaffirmed commitment to Doha peace process confidence-building measures and vowed to protect civilians from threats.
North Kivu Governor Erasto Bahati Musanga supported this view, calling it a routine military maneuver and dismissing social media rumors aimed at sparking fear. He assured the public of stability and encouraged normal routines.
The group, active since its 2022 resurgence, faces mutual ceasefire violation claims with the DRC government, which alleges Rwandan support—denied by Kigali and the rebels.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)