What is March 23 Movement ? M23 Movement

The March 23 Movement, often abbreviated as M23, is a Congolese rebel military group operating primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) North Kivu province, bordering Rwanda and Uganda.:

Background:

• Emerged in 2012, formed by defecting soldiers from the National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP) after a failed integration process with the DRC’s armed forces (FARDC).
• Primarily composed of ethnic Tutsi, who claim grievances related to violence and marginalization.

Activities:

• Engaged in armed conflict with the DRC government, most notably during the 2012-2013 M23 rebellion, which displaced a significant number of people.
• Resurfaced in late 2021 and has since clashed with FARDC and other armed groups in North Kivu, causing further displacement.
• Accused of human rights abuses by various human rights organizations.

Leadership:

• Current military leader: General Sultani Makenga
• Previous president: Bertrand Bisimwa (position may have changed)

Allegations:

• The Rwandan government has been accused of backing the M23, which Rwanda denies.
• The conflict in North Kivu is complex, with various actors and motivations involved.

Impact:

• The M23’s activities contribute to ongoing instability and violence in the eastern DRC, hindering development efforts and causing a humanitarian crisis.

Current Situation (as of May 29, 2024):

• The M23 has clashed with FARDC in recent months, raising concerns about a potential escalation of the conflict.
• Regional and international efforts are ongoing to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in North Kivu.