Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
The US has imposed sanctions on three rebel leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for instigating political instability, violence, and human rights abuses.
Who’s sanctioned: The United States announced that Corneille Nangaa (leader of the Congo River Alliance), Bertrand Bisimwa (leader of M23), and Charles Sematama (Deputy leader of Twirwaneho) were all sanctioned.
More on each rebel group:
Congo River Alliance (AFC): A coalition of rebel groups aiming to overthrow the DRC government. It includes prominent factions such as the M23 movement and Twirwaneho.
M23: A principal member of AFC, The March 23 Movement (M23) is a Congolese rebel group primarily composed of Tutsis, allegedly backed by Rwanda and Uganda. Formed in 2012, M23 has been involved in severe human rights abuses, including mass killings and rapes, particularly in North Kivu.
Twirwaneho: Twirwaneho is a South Kivu-based rebel group primarily composed of Banyamulenge Tutsis, formed in the early 2010s for self-defense against ethnic violence. Led by Michel “Makanika” Rukunda, the group claims to protect their community from other armed groups and the national army, but their actions have intensified the ongoing conflict and civilian suffering in eastern DRC.
What the US is saying: Brian Nelson, Under Secretary of the Treasury, said, “Today’s action reinforces our commitment to hold accountable those who seek to perpetuate instability, violence, and harm to civilians to achieve their political goals. We condemn AFC and its affiliates, including M23, for fueling this deadly conflict and exacerbating a humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC.”
What will the sanctions do?: According to the treasury, “all property and interests in property” of those sanctioned will now be blocked from transactions with individuals or entities in the US.
