Bertrand Bisimwa criticizes UN sanctions on AFC/M23 leaders

Bertrand Bisimwa, deputy leader of AFC/M23, has sharply criticized the United Nations Security Council for imposing sanctions on several of the group’s senior figures.

He described the move as “an emotional decision” that undermines peace efforts and could derail dialogue aimed at ending conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The sanctions, announced recently, targeted AFC/M23 leader Corneille Nangaa and Col. Nzenze Imani, head of intelligence for the movement. Measures include asset freezes, travel bans across UN member states, and enforcement by international security agencies such as Interpol.

In a statement posted on X on July 19, 2026, Bisimwa argued that the UN had punished “only one side” of the conflict, despite AFC/M23’s commitment to peace talks. He warned that such unilateral pressure could intensify violence, fuel ethnic tensions, and stall the fragile peace process.

“This is a step backwards that could endanger the peace journey,” Bisimwa said,

Adding that silencing communities affected by ethnic violence and displacement risks escalating hostilities rather than resolving them.

He further stressed that policies of hatred and exclusion, even if backed internationally, cannot defeat justice or deliver lasting peace.

The M23 rebellion has clashed with the Congolese army (FARDC) for years in eastern DRC. Despite multiple ceasefire agreements, fighting has repeatedly resumed, leaving communities trapped in cycles of displacement and insecurity.