“We are not supported by rwanda” – M23 Spokesperson Willy Ngoma

M23 spokesperson Willy Ngoma has firmly denied allegations that the group receives support from Rwanda, stressing that M23 is composed of Congolese soldiers fighting for their rights. Ngoma’s comments come amid ongoing tensions and accusations from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government, which continues to accuse Rwanda of backing the group. Rwanda has consistently denied these claims.

Three days after M23 announced it had taken control of the city of Goma following intense clashes with the Congolese Army (FARDC) and its allies, including the FDLR and Wazalendo, the DRC government has kept up its accusations, reporting them to international communities and organizations.

Ngoma Responds to Rwanda Allegations

During an interview with Sky News journalist Yousra Elbagir, who was reporting from Goma, Ngoma was asked whether M23 would have been able to capture the city without support from Rwanda. He categorically denied any such assistance.

“No, no, no. That’s not true, my sister. We are the Congolese military; we are Congolese. We are not supported by Rwanda. Stop saying that,” Ngoma replied.

M23’s Actions Post-Capture of Goma

Since taking control of Goma, M23 has freed East African Community (EAC) truck drivers who had been stranded due to the ongoing conflict. The group also expelled over 290 mercenaries from Romania, who had been deployed by the Congolese government to aid the FARDC. These mercenaries were reportedly sent back to their home countries via Rwanda.

M23 has maintained that its primary goal is not to escalate the war but to protect the rights of Congolese people, rights they claim have been denied by the DRC government. The group has also consistently refused to take part in peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.

N D