** Threat of reactivation of military fronts by the AFC/m23: What is this declaration hiding? **
On April 10, 2025, the Congo River Alliance Movement/Movement of 23-March (AFC/M23) made noise by announcing the possibility of reactivating its military fronts, accusing the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) of raping a truce in gestation. This declaration happens as peace talks in Doha are held, which raises essential questions about the dynamics of peace and war in an already particularly fragile context.
### a renewed tension context
AFC/M23 justifies its declarations by violent incidents on the ground, especially in the territory of Kalehe, in South Kivu. Recent clashes seem to result from the intervention of Wazalendo fighters, which, according to local sources, have occupied several villages, questioning the presence of the AFC/m23 in this region. Even if the specific information on the situation remains limited, it is clear that tensions have intensified in recent days. These clashes, often perceived as symptomatic of a broader conflict, illustrate the structural instability which has been hit in the east of the DRC for many years.
The potential reactivation of the military fronts by the AFC/m23 could be interpreted as an attempt to assert its position on the ground. The crucial question that arises is: to what extent can this strategy harm the negotiations in progress in Doha?
### Negotiations in Doha: a path strewn with pitfalls
Current peace talks in Doha represent significant progress, although wrapped in “palpable distrust”, according to some diplomatic sources. The two parties, the Congolese government and the AFC/M23, are still under discussion on prerequisites, without advancing towards measures of trust which would be crucial to approach the fundamental questions of the conflict. This climate of distrust unnecessarily complicates negotiation dynamics and raises questions about the real commitment of the two parties to a lasting peace process.
Negotiations are essential to defuse rooted conflicts on decades of misunderstanding and violence. However, they must be accompanied by signals of good faith, whose stability in the field is a fundamental aspect.
### An analysis of the underlying causes
This return to the threat of military violence can also be examined through the prism of the region’s socio-economic and political realities. The fight for controlling natural resources, the absence of an effective governance framework and the persistence of social injustices fuel resentment and conflicts. In such a context, the announcement of the reactivation of military fronts by the AFC/m23 may find its roots not only in military frustrations, but also in broader socio-economic challenges.
Vigilance is therefore in order. Local governments and the international community must take these dynamics into account to propose effective and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of the populations affected by this conflict.
### Towards a constructive reflection
In this uncertain context, it is imperative that the actors involved in negotiations, as well as the international community, become aware of the impacts of an escalation of violence. Priority should be to initiate a constructive dialogue which hears the grievances on all sides, while maintaining sufficient pressure to prevent any violent resurgence.
The lessons of the past must be integrated into discussions: long -term solutions require listening to the aspirations of local populations and tackling the roots of conflicts. This requires time, patience and a sincere commitment to peace.
### Conclusion
The threat formulated by the AFC/M23 of a reactivation of military actions, despite the peace talks, highlights the complexity of the peace process in the east of the DRC. The current situation calls for a renewed commitment of all stakeholders in favor of peace, while recognizing the challenges present on the ground. Only a collaborative approach, attentive to everyone’s realities, will hope to hope for a peaceful future in this troubled region.