Gambiaj.com – (UVIRA, Democratic Republic of Congo) – The AFC/M23 rebel coalition has announced its intention to complete a full withdrawal from Uvira, the second-largest city in South Kivu province. While the group had previously pulled the majority of its combatants from the city following its capture in early December, this latest move signals an end to its remaining military and administrative presence.
In a formal statement, the politico-military group declared that it is officially placing the city of 500,000 residents under the “full and entire responsibility of the international community.”
Appeal to MONUSCO
The AFC/M23 claims to have contacted the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) four days ago, requesting that the mission step in to ensure the protection of civilians in accordance with its mandate.
However, this request faces significant logistical and legal hurdles, as MONUSCO currently has no troops deployed in South Kivu. Any potential redeployment to this part of the province would depend on an official decision from the United Nations Security Council, which is not expected to address the matter until its meeting this coming March.
Dismantling Local Administration
Until now, the AFC/M23 maintained a visible “observation and monitoring unit” consisting of uniformed soldiers, plainclothes agents, and rebel police. Additionally, the group had installed “interim civil leaders” across various neighborhoods to manage local administration.
The movement now states that these units and administrative actors are being disengaged, effectively vacating their roles in the city’s governance.
A Tense “Red Line”
Despite the withdrawal, the AFC/M23 issued a stern warning regarding the future of Uvira. The group stated it would not tolerate the return of the Congolese National Army (FARDC) or the “Wazalendo” (pro-government local militias) to the city.
This ultimatum creates a dangerous security vacuum. While the AFC/M23 claims it is no longer responsible for the city’s safety, the absence of a recognized security force—and the prohibition of the national army’s return—leaves the population of Uvira in a precarious position. As of today, independent observers on the ground say it remains difficult to verify if all armed units have physically vacated the city limits.
