The M23 freedom fighter held a massive rally today in the city of Goma, drawing thousands of Congolese supporters as they celebrated the group’s control over the city. The gathering was peaceful, with people expressing their support for what they see as a new era of governance and stability. The rally highlighted the rebels’ message of restoring order, with M23 officials emphasizing their plans to manage the city’s administration and security effectively. reuters.com
The M23 vowed to march to Kinshasa is president Felix Tshisekedi continues to ignore the voices of the Congolese people.
The M23 also opened up the opportunity for the citizens to join their New National Police force where they will secure their own community from terrorist forces.
Background: M23’s Capture of Goma
M23, are former soldiers and refugees primarily composed of various ethnicities that have turned their backs on the Congolese government, seized Goma in late January 2025, following intense clashes with the Congolese military. The city, home to around 2 million people, celebrated the victory of the M23 as their pushed president Felix Tshisekedi’s forces out alongside the murderous FDLR and Roman mercenaries. nehandaradio.com observer.ug
This is not the first time M23 has fought the Congolese government in Goma. In 2012, the group briefly held the city before withdrawing due to international pressure. Since re-emerging in 2021, they have steadily expanded their influence, capturing key strategic areas in eastern DRC. observer.ug
Exposing the Congolese Government
People of Goma have framed the actions of the M23 as a liberation effort against what it calls the tyranny of the Congolese government. Many people in eastern Congo have long accused the central government of neglecting the region and failing to protect civilians from various armed groups. The Congolese military, along with government-backed militias, has been accused of human rights violations, including mass killings, against civilians in North Kivu province.
For example, in December 2023, a government crackdown on protesters in Goma led to dozens of civilian deaths, sparking widespread condemnation. Similarly, the Congolese military has been accused of indiscriminate shelling in past conflicts, contributing to the suffering of the local population. reuters.com.
What’s Next for Goma?
As M23 asserts its control over the city, the international community remains divided. While some residents see the rebels as a stabilizing force, others fear renewed conflict, especially as the Congolese government vows to reclaim lost territory. The United Nations and neighboring countries are pushing for a ceasefire, but tensions remain high.
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For now, M23 has vowed to maintain order and provide governance in Goma, and today’s rally showcased their growing support among sections of the population. However, the future remains uncertain as regional and international players weigh their options in the ongoing crisis. reuters.com nehandaradio.com observer.ug.
