Protesters Attack Foreign Embassies in Kinshasa Over M23 Rebel Crisis

Protesters Attack Foreign Embassies in Kinshasa Over M23 Rebel Crisis

Kinshasa, DR Congo – January 29, 2025 – Chaos erupted in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, as protesters stormed the embassies of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, and the United States. The demonstrators expressed anger over what they perceive as a lack of international support in the fight against M23 rebels in the country’s restive eastern region.

Eyewitnesses reported scenes of destruction, with some embassy buildings being vandalized. Security forces responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds, but tensions remained high throughout the day.

Protesters Demand Action Against M23 Rebels

The protests were fueled by rising frustration over the ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group, which has intensified its attacks in eastern DR Congo. Many Congolese citizens accuse Rwanda of backing the rebels—an allegation Kigali has repeatedly denied. The demonstrators also voiced their disappointment in Uganda and Kenya, key members of the East African Community (EAC), for what they claim is a failure to take decisive action against the M23 insurgency.

France and the United States were also targeted due to their diplomatic influence and perceived inaction in pressuring Rwanda and Uganda to address the crisis. “We are tired of empty promises,” one protester shouted. “The world is watching as our people suffer, but no one is taking real action.”

Diplomatic Reactions and Security Concerns

Following the attacks, the affected embassies condemned the violence and urged the Congolese government to ensure the safety of diplomatic missions. The Rwandan Embassy released a statement calling for restraint, while the U.S. Embassy advised American citizens in Kinshasa to avoid protest-prone areas.

The Congolese government has yet to issue an official response, but sources indicate heightened security measures will be implemented around foreign missions in the coming days.

Escalating Tensions in Eastern Congo

The M23 rebellion has been a major source of instability in eastern DR Congo, with thousands displaced due to renewed clashes. The Congolese military, supported by regional forces, has struggled to contain the insurgents, leading to growing frustration among civilians.

The attacks on embassies signal a worsening political climate, raising concerns about further unrest in Kinshasa. Analysts warn that unless decisive international action is taken, the conflict could spiral further, worsening the humanitarian crisis.

This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new details emerge.