Goma, DRC — In the early hours of January 26, 2025, the city of Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) witnessed a historic turning point as the M23 forces declared victory, liberating the city from the control of FARDC (Forces Armées de la République Démocratique du Congo), FDLR militias, and associated mercenary forces. This triumph marked not just a military success but a symbolic win for Pan-Africanism, as Congolese fighters reclaimed their city without the backing of any major Western powers.

M23 Entering into the city of Goma before the final showdown.

The Final Assault: A Strategically Orchestrated Victory

M23’s approach to liberating Goma was methodical and precise. On January 25, the group issued an ultimatum to FARDC and its allies, giving them 48 hours to surrender or face a decisive confrontation. Over the following hours, M23 forces implemented a three-pronged strategy:

  1. Encirclement: M23 surrounded Goma, cutting off supply routes and isolating FARDC and their allied forces, including mercenaries and the FDLR. This maneuver paralyzed enemy reinforcements, leaving them with limited options.

    The Red Field are territories M23 captured before ascending into Goma.
  2. Airport Seizure: M23 swiftly seized control of Goma’s strategic airport, a vital asset for FARDC’s supply chain and a key link for international reinforcements. This move deprived Tshisekedi’s forces of their primary logistical hub.
  3. Communications Disruption: The group scrambled internet and communication signals within the city, sowing confusion among FARDC ranks and preventing coordination with external allies.

By 3:00 AM, the deadline set by M23, FARDC and allied forces, including UNESCO personnel stationed in the city, had retreated. Witnesses reported that FARDC soldiers abandoned their posts, fleeing with remnants of their equipment. The oppressive forces that had long plagued Goma melted away, leaving the city in M23’s control without significant civilian casualties.

United Nations Fleeing the scene.

A Tremendous Victory for Pan-Africanism

For many, the liberation of Goma represents a significant milestone in the struggle for African sovereignty and justice. M23’s triumph highlighted the ability of local forces to reclaim their land and resist oppressive regimes without reliance on Western powers. The victory also underscored the failure of President Felix Tshisekedi’s government, which had sought to portray M23 as a foreign-backed militia rather than a Congolese movement born from resistance against exploitation and oppression.

The Retreat of Tshisekedi’s Allies

The retreat from Goma was chaotic, with FARDC and allied forces abandoning strategic positions. Notably, UNESCO personnel, often criticized for aligning with Tshisekedi’s regime, also evacuated under the cover of darkness. Reports indicate that the forces of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which had sent troops from South Africa and Malawi to reinforce FARDC, faced fierce resistance from M23, suffering significant casualties. Nine South African and three Malawian soldiers were confirmed dead, further demoralizing Tshisekedi’s allies.

The Role of M23: Fighters for Sovereignty

Contrary to the propaganda perpetuated by Western media, M23 fighters are not foreign invaders but largely composed of Congolese refugees and defectors from FARDC. These individuals, disillusioned with the corruption and oppression of Tshisekedi’s regime, joined M23 to fight for justice and the restoration of dignity in their homeland. Their ranks include former FARDC soldiers who brought tactical expertise and weaponry to the cause.

 


 

The Legacy of Tshisekedi’s Regime

Under Tshisekedi, the DRC has been marred by corruption, human rights abuses, and the exploitation of its vast mineral wealth by multinational corporations. The regime’s alliance with the genocidal FDLR militia has only deepened the suffering of the Congolese people, with countless civilians displaced, killed, or subjected to violence. In contrast, M23’s mission has resonated with many Congolese, who see the group as freedom fighters reclaiming their land and future.

The Road Ahead for Goma

As M23 consolidates control over Goma, the city’s residents await the next steps with cautious optimism. The group has emphasized its commitment to restoring peace and order while advocating for a dialogue to resolve the broader crisis in the DRC. Notably, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had offered to mediate peace talks between M23 and Tshisekedi’s government, but Tshisekedi’s refusal to engage has prolonged the conflict.

The liberation of Goma serves as a potent symbol of resistance against neocolonial exploitation and oppressive governance. M23’s victory, achieved without the backing of any major Western powers, challenges the narratives often promoted by international media and underscores the resilience of the Congolese people. As celebrations erupt across liberated territories, the message is clear: the people of the DRC are reclaiming their destiny, one city at a time.

 

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