Bodies Recovered in Goma as M23 Rebels Take Control and Call for Normalcy

M23 rebels take control of Goma, with bodies found in the aftermath, as they call for a return to normalcy in the region. 

On Thursday, the streets of Goma starkly reflected recent turmoil, with bodies—many clad in military uniforms—remaining where they had fallen.

The ongoing clashes between the M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces since January 26 have left the city in turmoil. Even though M23 fighters are urging businesses to reopen, much of Goma still lacks electricity and water, highlighting how precarious a return to normalcy is.

The March 23 Movement (M23), initially established in 2012 by rebellious ex-Tutsi insurgents with support from Rwanda, reignited conflict in 2021.

The violence has forced 500,000 people to flee their homes, worsening the humanitarian crisis already affecting eastern DRC.

As M23 rebels reportedly push further into South Kivu province, President Félix Tshisekedi vowed to deliver a “vigorous and coordinated response” to halt their progress.

According to UN experts, approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are believed to be supporting the M23 rebels—significantly more than in 2012. As some residents tried to return to their regular routines, others remained cautious and chose to flee due to fears of ongoing conflict.