Corneille Nangaa, the leader of the M23 rebel group, has made it clear that his forces are not going anywhere. After taking control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nangaa said they are ready to march towards Kinshasa if needed.
During a press conference at the Serena Hotel, Nangaa showed his determination to establish control over the region. He criticized the DRC government for cutting off electricity and internet access in Goma and assured both local people and neighbouring countries that the area will be stable. “We are in Goma to stay; we are Congolese,” he declared, firmly rejecting any calls for retreat.
This is not the first time M23 has taken over Goma. They previously captured the city in November 2012 but were later forced to leave after international pressure led to negotiations with the DRC government. This time, however, Nangaa made it clear they have no plans to back down. He questioned where they would retreat to.
To calm fears among residents and encourage displaced Congolese refugees to return home, Nangaa promised to restore electricity and internet services within 48 hours, although he did not explain how this would happen. The M23’s control of Goma has raised concerns both in the region and internationally, prompting leaders from the East African Community to seek a peaceful solution as tensions grow.
The United States has responded by issuing a Level 4 travel advisory due to safety concerns in the DRC. Despite this warning, Nangaa urged those living in nearby countries like Uganda and Rwanda, where more than 260,000 Congolese refugees currently live, to prepare for their return home. He promised that plans would be put in place to help them come back safely.
Goma is home to around two million people and is an important centre for international military and humanitarian efforts. The impact of this takeover is significant. Reports say that M23 forces have taken control of key locations in the city, including the airport and national broadcasting offices. They have also captured several UN peacekeepers and foreign mercenaries.
It seems that Nangaa’s leadership has gained some local support. Before internet services were cut off, social media was filled with pictures of residents welcoming M23 fighters into their streets. The group has promised to improve the region’s economy and infrastructure as part of their plans.
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This is great if M23 is of that direction to allow their own people to return back home 🏡.