The gathering in Luvungi was attended by large crowds, where AFC/M23 leaders called on the public to send messages to displaced residents and encourage them to return so they can join efforts to rebuild the country and restore infrastructure damaged by the conflict.

In their address, AFC/M23 leaders said they are fundamentally different from the Kinshasa government, insisting that they do not discriminate against communities based on ethnicity or language, but instead prioritize “unity among all Congolese people.”

They accused the Kinshasa authorities of persecuting Kinyarwanda-speakers and Tutsi communities, saying they had never supported or participated in such practices.

Residents who attended the meeting expressed satisfaction with the progress made by AFC/M23, noting that many people had fled or were hiding in forests, and promised to call on them to return and reunite with their families.

In areas already under AFC/M23 control, including Kamanyola, Katogota and others, infrastructure has reportedly been reopened, including electricity services, and children have resumed school.

Luvungi was captured last Saturday, but AFC/M23 continues to expand its control, pushing back FARDC forces, Burundian troops, Wazalendo militias and FDLR fighters.