The M23 rebel movement has described France’s recent call to reopen Goma International Airport as “untimely,” arguing that such a move should only occur within the context of ongoing peace negotiations in Doha, Qatar.
In a statement issued on October 30, 2025, and signed by Lawrence Kanyuka, the Head of the Communication Department for the M23, the group emphasized that reopening the airport outside the negotiation framework could undermine efforts to achieve a lasting political solution to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kanyuka said the situation on the ground remains volatile, citing repeated drone attacks allegedly launched by forces of the Kinshasa government against civilian targets. He pointed to incidents in Walikale and Minembwe, where humanitarian aircraft were destroyed, as evidence of continued hostilities in violation of ceasefire commitments.
“The Kinshasa regime has closed the airspace over the liberated territories to freely operate drones and aircraft targeting civilian populations,” the communiqué stated, accusing the government of pursuing a military rather than a political solution.
The statement further argued that since most displaced persons have already returned to their homes, “there is no longer any humanitarian emergency” in areas under M23 control. It also warned France against being influenced by what it called “humanitarian lobbies” that, according to the group, have benefited financially from the plight of displaced persons and indirectly supported armed groups such as the FDLR.
Kanyuka urged France to “act with caution” in its diplomatic engagements to avoid reigniting painful memories of its controversial involvement in the Great Lakes region’s history.
The M23, officially known as the Alliance Fleuve Congo/Mouvement du 23 Mars (AFC/M23), reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and seeking a peaceful resolution through the ongoing mediation led by Qatar, with support from the United States and the African Union.
