The AFC/M23 movement has dismissed an August 20 report by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on the situation in North and South Kivu provinces, saying it “misrepresents facts,” and undermines efforts to defend human rights in DR Congo. ALSO READ: M23 says civilian massacres 'can no longer be ignored' The report alleges that M23 rebels executed over 140 civilians in at least 14 villages and farming areas near Virunga National Park in Rutshuru territory in July. In response, the movement refuted the allegations and accused international organisations of failing to conduct credible investigations in conflict zones, claiming they are “blindly backing a corrupt system led by an impostor.” Jean-Paul Shaka, Advisor to Alliance Fleuve Congo, said the report reflects “persistent propaganda by some international bodies aimed at supporting the moribund regime in Kinshasa.” “Despite multiple clarifications and denials, these organisations continue to target AFC/M23 with unfounded accusations while ignoring the widespread mismanagement and criminality of the current government,” Shaka said. According to Shaka, areas under AFC/M23 control have experienced relative calm, improved coexistence, and new development initiatives. “While we have restored security and initiated projects, international actors seem more invested in propaganda to keep Tshisekedi in power,” he said. The rebels cited Uvira as an example of worsening conditions under Kinshasa regime, alleging that militias loyal to Kinshasa are persecuting the Banyamulenge community and cutting off access to basic services like clean drinking water. ALSO READ: Tshisekedi says 'no dialogue outside' DR Congo AFC/M23 also listed alleged abuses by the government including restrictions on the movement of political opponents and Swahili-speaking populations, integration of FDLR fighters into the national army (FARDC), and deployment of Burundian troops against civilians. It also cited torture and sexual violence in prisons such as Makala, Ndolo, and Kasapa, as well as financing violent attacks by CODECO militias in Ituri and ADF rebels in Ituri targeting Hema and Nande communities. The AFC/M23 said it “categorically rejects” the OHCHR report and vowed to present its own account of human rights violations committed by the Kinshasa regime.
