UN report links RDF authorities with the M23 command.

 

A report by the United Nations group of experts, published this Wednesday, reveals a chain of command between the Rwandan political-military authorities, General Sultani Makenga, military leader of the March 23 Movement (M23), and Corneille Nangaa, head of the Congo River Alliance (AFC).

According to the UN document, since April 2024, the M23, with the support of the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF), has intensified its territorial expansion in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite ceasefire agreements. "This strategy indicates a desire for long-term occupation and exploitation of conquered territories," the report states.

The overall military command of the M23 remains under the authority of Sultani Makenga, who, according to the report, continues to receive instructions and logistical support from the RDF and Rwandan intelligence services. The AFC, led by Corneille Nangaa, operates in close coordination with the M23, although the two entities remain distinct. “The AFC depends on Makenga’s authorization to conduct its operations,” the report says.

The report also details joint activities of the AFC-M23 coalition, including recruitment drives among local armed groups in Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. “Both groups hold meetings in newly conquered territories to promote their coalition, recruit new members and set up parallel administrations,” the UN experts add.

In addition, historical figures such as René Abandi and Jean-Marie Runiga, the latter subject to international sanctions, have been recalled to strengthen coalition alliances. These actions aim to consolidate the support of local armed groups and to structure civilian and military administrations in occupied areas.

The report highlights that the AFC-M23 coalition is acting with the aim of "sustainably reshaping the Congolese political and military landscape", while benefiting from direct and indirect support from the Rwandan authorities. This situation continues to fuel regional tensions and compromise stabilization efforts in eastern DRC.