The African Union has issued a stark warning against any territorial division of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following fresh advances by the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group in the country’s eastern region.
The statement came on Sunday, February 16, 2025, two days after M23 fighters seized control of a second city.
Speaking to reporters, Bankole Adeoye, the AU’s Peace and Security Commissioner, stressed the organisation’s firm stance against the disintegration of the DRC.
“We don’t want a balkanisation of eastern DRC,” he declared, reinforcing the AU’s commitment to preserving the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Without directly naming Rwanda, Adeoye called for the immediate withdrawal of M23 forces and their supporters from all occupied areas, including the strategic Goma airport.
The rebel group had previously taken control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, at the end of January before advancing further south, intensifying a conflict that has plagued the region for decades.
The worsening situation has raised alarm internationally. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned on Saturday that every effort must be made to prevent a broader regional escalation.
Adeoye reiterated that upholding the DRC’s political unity was essential, calling for urgent action to restore stability and prevent further fragmentation of the nation.
