DRC: Civil society activists call for protests in Butembo, Dec. 10

Event

Civil society activists have called for a protest at the ITAV Basketball stadium in Butembo 14:30-16:30 Dec. 10. Participants intend to denounce rebel attacks in eastern DRC.

A heightened security presence is likely in Butembo, Dec. 10. Clashes are possible if protesters ignore police orders to disperse. Localized ground travel disruptions are likely near all protest locations.

Context

Since November 2021, the M23 rebel group has increased attacks targeting armed forces in the eastern DRC, while tensions have increased between Rwanda and the DRC. In June, the M23 captured the town of Bunagana, Rutshuru Territory; as of the end of November, M23 rebels remain in control of the town. Rebels also took control of several localities along the strategic road connecting Butembo and Goma. Fighting also took place near Kibumba and Rugari, located about 20 km (13 miles) north of Goma. Several protests have been held in recent months in the Kivu provinces and Kinshasa to denounce the security situation. Recently, UN investigators accused M23 rebels of killing at least 130 civilians in Kishishe Nov. 29. The M23 has denied any involvement against the civilian population.

The M23 is seeking to pressure the government to honor a peace agreement signed in 2013, allowing the reintegration of the armed forces into society, among other issues. In April, the group allowed for a truce with the government; however, it did not attend peace talks launched in Kenya between the government and armed groups.

On Nov. 25, the East African Community (EAC) agreed on a cessation of hostilities in eastern DRC. Although the ceasefire includes the withdrawal of M23 rebels from occupied territories and its disarmament, the continued deployment of the EAC regional force, and the resumption of dialogue between DRC and Rwanda, M23 rebels have not signed the agreement and are therefore not bound to it. M23 rebels have announced their intention to commit to the ceasefire and retreat from controlled territories on the condition they engage in a direct dialogue with the DRC government, a request the government has so far refused. The EAC stated it would use military means in the event M23 rebels do not comply with the decisions. Kenya has already deployed about 900 troops in Goma, while other contingents are expected to be operational in the short term. While M23 operations may continue over the coming days, the capture of Goma appears unlikely.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Plan for disruptions in Butembo Dec. 10. Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in affected areas. Travel in convoy and during daylight hours only. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions. Adhere to directives issued by local authorities. If clashes occur, depart the area immediately.