Peaceful protests erupt in Goma against AFC/M23 withdrawal from Uvira

Residents of Nyiragongo Territory and Goma City on Sunday staged peaceful demonstrations opposing the withdrawal of AFC/M23 fighters from the city of Uvira, while also condemning the leadership of President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye, whom they accused of involvement in a conflict they say does not concern them.

The protests took place across several neighborhoods of Goma and its outskirts. Demonstrators halted their daily activities and gathered at Stade de l’Unité before marching through the city’s main roads. The mobilization followed the announced withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces from Uvira on December 17 and 18.

AFC/M23 has stated that the decision to pull out of Uvira was made in response to requests from the United States and as a goodwill gesture aimed at facilitating peace talks with the Congolese government.

However, the DRC government has disputed this account, insisting that AFC/M23 fighters did not leave Uvira but instead blended into the civilian population. Authorities in Kinshasa have further demanded that the group return to their original positions.

Protesters voice anger and frustration

Amid visible anger, protesters in Goma said they oppose the withdrawal of AFC/M23 from Uvira and expressed deep frustration over what they described as persistent killings and poor governance under President Tshisekedi and his allies.

Through songs, placards, and speeches, demonstrators said they were weary of the constant sound of gunfire in eastern Congo. They called for Uvira to enjoy the same level of security they claim currently exists in Goma and Bukavu.

One protester said that demonstrating against what they view as injustice is their right, adding that security had improved since AFC/M23 entered Uvira—an experience they wish for the city’s residents.

“Those who say M23 should leave Uvira should stay where they are, and we will stay where we are. They are far better than the FARDC; they are disciplined soldiers who seek unity, rights, and national development,” he said.

Another demonstrator echoed similar sentiments, saying: “We want M23 to remain in Uvira and everywhere else. We no longer want FARDC; Tshisekedi’s soldiers are thieves.”

Rejection of multiple armed forces

The protesters emphasized that they do not want the Congolese army (FARDC), Burundian troops, the Wazalendo militias, or the FDLR designated by many as a terrorist group to return to Uvira.

They also claimed satisfaction with the administration of AFC/M23, citing improved access to water, electricity, and security. According to them, residents in Goma are able to sleep peacefully without the sound of gunfire.

In a statement read outside the offices of the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO), demonstrators called on the United Nations, the United States, and other international mediators to establish a reliable mechanism to protect civilian populations.

For its part, AFC/M23 has expressed support for the deployment of neutral forces in Uvira, arguing that such an arrangement would allow civilians to resume their daily activities without fear and contribute to lasting stability in the area.