DR Congo: M23 Movement Takes Control of Luke and Katobotobo in Masisi

On Wednesday, the M23 movement gained control of the areas of Luke and Katobotobo in Masisi Territory, North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to a civil society representative who spoke to the BBC.

This followed intense fighting on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in the western parts of Masisi between M23 and the Wazalendo self-defense groups, who are generally supported by the national army (FARDC).

The BBC attempted to contact M23 for comment but has not yet received a response.

Local civil society organizations report that since the beginning of the week, large numbers of civilians have fled their homes in areas including Osso Banyungu in the Nyamaboko groupement, Katoyi, Katobotobo, and neighboring villages.

Some Congolese media outlets confirmed that M23 took control of Katobotobo and Luke on Wednesday.

Radio Okapi reports that this week’s clashes involved M23 and Wazalendo fighters affiliated with a faction of the Résistants Patriotes Congolais (PARECO) led by a commander known as Mutayomba.

Meanwhile, gunfire was heard overnight from Monday to Tuesday in the Rusayo groupement, north of the city of Goma, reportedly due to a Wazalendo attack on that area.

Later, in a video statement, the Wazalendo faction known as CMC claimed that its positions in Rusayo were attacked by M23 and that it responded in self-defense. The BBC has not independently verified this information.

Fighting between M23 and Wazalendo CMC was also reported on Monday and Tuesday in Bukombo groupement, within Bwito chiefdom in Rutshuru Territory, also in North Kivu. These clashes reportedly led to further displacement of civilians.

Toward a Permanent Ceasefire

These recurring confrontations come shortly after M23 and the Kinshasa government agreed to a permanent ceasefire during peace negotiations held in Doha, Qatar. The agreement is intended to pave the way for a comprehensive peace accord expected next month.

It remains difficult to determine which party initiates the fighting, as each side regularly accuses the other of being the aggressor.

The Doha agreement, signed by both parties, stipulates that the ceasefire must apply to all combatants involved in the conflict. Both sides also committed to avoiding any actions that could hinder the ceasefire, including attempts to seize new territory by force.

While analysts consider the ceasefire agreement a significant step, they note that the main challenge lies in its enforcement.

A joint monitoring mechanism is expected to be established to oversee compliance with the ceasefire and ensure accountability on both sides.

Representatives of M23 and the Kinshasa government are scheduled to return to Doha for further talks, aiming to conclude and sign a final peace agreement by August 18, 2025, as agreed in documents signed last weekend.