DRC Condemns Killings and Rights Abuses in RDF, AFC/M23-Held Areas

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo — August 24, 2026 — The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has condemned what it describes as continuing killings, serious human-rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law in territories occupied by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and AFC/M23.

In an official press release issued Monday, the government said information consolidated by its competent services documented more than 300 people killed during June and July 2026 alone through alleged summary executions, massacres and bombardments.

Authorities also reported hundreds of cases of rape, more than 300 cases of torture — including against students — as well as hundreds of abductions and forced recruitment cases, particularly targeting Congolese youth in Tshanzu and Rumangabo.

The government further accused the forces controlling these areas of burning homes and carrying out looting against civilian populations.

Kinshasa Alleges Population Transfers From Rwanda

The statement also accused Kigali of carrying out what the Congolese government called an “organized process of population transplantation.”

According to the government, more than 100 families of Rwandan origin crossed through Kabuhanga in Nyiragongo territory on August 10 before being settled in Rwibiranga, in the Buhumba grouping.

Kinshasa alleges that the movement forms part of an effort to alter the demographic composition of Congolese territory under occupation.

Government Denounces Illegal Fees and Parallel Administration

The government also accused AFC/M23 and the RDF of imposing measures affecting education and healthcare.