“We will fight until Kigali agrees to talks,” FDLR declares
As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) launches a campaign urging Rwandan rebel fighters from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) to surrender and lay down their arms, the group has vowed to keep fighting until the Rwandan government agrees to negotiate with them. The initiative is part of the implementation of the June 27 agreements signed between Kinshasa and Kigali in Washington, D.C.
On November 7, 2025, Rwanda and the DRC reviewed joint military plans to neutralize the FDLR, approving operational measures aimed at dismantling one of the oldest armed groups operating in eastern Congo. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to ending the long-standing militia’s presence.
“Laying Down Arms Is a Dream”
Lieutenant Colonel Octavien Mutimura, spokesperson for FDLR-FOCA, rejected any possibility of surrender. Speaking to RFI, he said, “The reasons behind our armed struggle must first be addressed. We are here to protect ourselves and the Rwandan refugees who were abandoned. Talking about disarmament without solving the root causes of this war is a dream.”
Asked whether they feared a possible joint offensive from Rwandan and Congolese forces, Mutimura responded, “When you’re in the fire, you don’t fear being burned. We are part of Kigali’s equation. We will fight until Kigali agrees to genuine dialogue among Rwandans and ensures a dignified return for refugees.”
He further accused the M23/AFC movement of attacking FDLR positions and terrorizing Rwandan refugees. “We are in combat zones. The AFC/M23 attacks us constantly and threatens our refugees. We have a duty to defend them,” he said.
UNHCR-Facilitated Returns Continue Despite FDLR’s Claims
While the FDLR insists it is defending Rwandan refugees, voluntary repatriations continue under the supervision of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). On October 21, 277 Rwandans crossed back into the country through the Rubavu border post. In August, 532 others—168 families—had already returned home. According to UNHCR, over 800 individuals have voluntarily repatriated in the past three months.
However, FDLR disputes the neutrality of UNHCR. Mutimura accused the agency of “colluding” with Rwanda, claiming that “some people returned to Rwanda with UNHCR’s help are Congolese, while others were forcibly repatriated. We accuse UNHCR of playing Rwanda’s game.”
Rwanda Advances Reintegration Program
Meanwhile, Rwanda continues its reintegration efforts for former combatants. On November 7, the 76th intake of the Mutobo Reintegration Centre in Musanze began training 156 ex-FDLR fighters and members of affiliated groups. The three-month program focuses on reintegration into civilian life, positive behavior, and civic education.
Authorities say the initiative is key to long-term peace and security, aiming to help former fighters rebuild their lives while supporting the stability of the Great Lakes region.
