MWE Correspondent
The rebel group M23, which holds sway over parts of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has strongly denied accusations of involvement in the recent killings of civilians in South Kivu and claims of recruiting child soldiers.
Speaking to the BBC, M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma emphasized that the group does not target civilians. “We do not kill civilians. How could we harm those we are meant to protect? We wouldn’t even harm their chickens. We respect civilians,” Ngoma said firmly.
The accusations come after the DRC Armed Forces blamed M23 for the deaths of over 300 civilians last month. These claims were supported by a report from the United Nations Human Rights Office, which cited direct evidence implicating the group, reportedly backed by Rwanda.
Ngoma contested these allegations, stating that UN investigators have yet to visit M23-controlled territories to witness conditions firsthand.
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He added that many reports reflect biased views aligned with the DRC government’s perspective.
Regional experts note that efforts by international mediators from countries like the United States and Qatar to broker peace continue to face serious challenges. Despite multiple negotiations, lasting stability remains elusive in the volatile eastern provinces of the DRC.
The conflict in areas such as South Kivu has deep roots tied to ethnic tensions, resource competition, and cross-border dynamics. The M23 rebellion, which began in 2012, has periodically reignited violence, displacing thousands and disrupting communities.
