FARDC Stands Strong Against M23's Attempt to Capture Goma

As the sun rose over Goma, the city remained restless. Since midnight, M23 and their allies have spread false claims, declaring, "Goma has fallen." Certain journalists echoed their propaganda, trying to paint a picture of victory. But the reality on the ground was starkly different. The brave soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), though under pressure, had not surrendered. They held their ground, refusing to let the enemy walk in unchallenged.

However, behind the scenes, a critical decision was being made. Around 8 PM on Sunday, an order came from FARDC High Command to withdraw from Goma. This directive was meant to prevent a large-scale massacre, as the city had already suffered enough.

But for the soldiers on the ground, this command felt like a betrayal. Leaving Goma meant abandoning their fellow citizens, their comrades, and their posts.

FARDC REFUSED TO ABANDON GOMA

At 6 AM, the decisive moment arrived. At Goma airport, the withdrawal order reached the FARDC troops. But the response was not what the commanders expected. An unspoken rebellion took shape. Soldiers looked at each other, their silence heavy with determination.

How could they abandon their people to a foreign-backed rebellion? How could they walk away and let Rwanda, under the cover of M23, seize another piece of Congolese land?

Then came the answer: a quiet but firm "No." This was not disobedience; it was loyalty to their nation. The soldiers chose to stay and fight.

What followed was unexpected. FARDC forces did not just hold their positions; they took the fight directly to the aggressors. Skirmishes erupted across the city as Congolese troops engaged the enemy in every alley and every street.

By 8 AM, an even bolder move unfolded FARDC units crossed the border into Rwanda’s Gisenyi, striking at the heart of those who had orchestrated this invasion. This act of defiance sent shockwaves through the enemy ranks. M23, who had been preparing to celebrate their so-called victory, suddenly found themselves questioning their position.

The battle for Goma was not just about a city but about the DRC's sovereignty. FARDC stood firm, showing that Congo would not kneel before Rwanda’s interference and M23’s treachery. The fight was not over, but one thing was clear: Congolese soldiers were ready to defend their homeland at any cost.