DRC: Cautious hope and skepticism after AFC-M23 announces withdrawal from Uvira

Security Updates in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

The announcement of the unilateral withdrawal of AFC-M23 fighters from Uvira, located in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has raised hopes for peace while also prompting numerous questions.

The announcement by the rebels of the Congo River Alliance (AFC-M23) has stirred discussions among Uvira residents. On Tuesday, individuals in this strategic city in South Kivu—recently under rebel control—expressed mixed feelings of relief, mistrust, and uncertainty.

In both working-class neighborhoods and the city center, the news has dominated conversations. While some view the withdrawal as a step towards de-escalation, others are skeptical about its authenticity and longevity.

Furaha Amani, a resident of Uvira, expressed a widely shared sentiment: "We were waiting for the M23 to withdraw, but we still saw them this morning. We don’t have a problem; whoever is going to protect us is the one we will stay with. All we want is peace."

This perspective highlights the fatigue among the population due to prolonged conflict and a pragmatic approach towards daily survival. Security remains a primary concern for Uvira's residents.

Rachid Nezera, another resident, emphasized the economic and social stakes: "We want peace. When they arrived, they said they would bring us peace. We need peace so that everyone can do their work in peace."

The recent occupation has disrupted markets, closed schools, and paralyzed activities, severely impacting local life. A return to normalcy is a key desire for the community.

AFC-M23 coordinator Corneille Nangaa confirmed the unilateral withdrawal in a statement released on Tuesday. The group claims to be responding to a request from the United States amid increasing diplomatic pressure.

The announcement includes several conditions, such as the full demilitarization of the city, effective civilian protection, and strict ceasefire monitoring. The group is also advocating for the deployment of a neutral force to oversee the security situation.

These demands raise uncertainties regarding the future security arrangements. Key questions include who will ensure the population's safety and which forces will replace the rebels. As of now, answers remain elusive.

The withdrawal occurs in a context of regional tension, with Washington accusing Rwanda of supporting AFC-M23, a claim denied by Kigali. During a United Nations Security Council meeting on December 12, US Ambassador Mike Waltz criticized Rwanda's policy, stating it could lead to increased instability and conflict in the region.

For the people of Uvira, these geopolitical issues feel remote compared to their immediate concern: living without the threat of violence. While the withdrawal announcement offers a glimmer of hope, residents remain cautious. In Uvira, a border town with Burundi, peace is a fragile promise, often declared but seldom enduring. The true test will be the situation on the ground in the forthcoming days and weeks.

Based on reporting by Africanews.