The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently in turmoil due to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has intensified its conflict with national troops, leading to significant casualties and deteriorating relations with Rwanda. The article traces the life of M23 leader Sultani Makenga, whose journey highlights the long-standing conflicts in the region fueled by ethnic tensions and the DRC’s wealth of mineral resources.
Born on December 25, 1973, in Massi, Makenga grew up in a Tutsi family and joined the Tutsi-led Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) to fight for greater representation in Rwanda. His military career took shape during the Rwandan genocide in 1994, after which he became an officer in the Rwandan army. Makenga’s career in the army was complicated by his low level of formal education and language skills.
After serving in the Rwandan-backed invasion of the DRC in 1998, Makenga developed a reputation as a skilled commander. Despite an official ceasefire in 2003, he remained involved with armed groups opposing the Congolese government. After merging with the Congolese army, he eventually re-emerged as a leader of the M23 movement, which claims to protect Tutsi rights in the DRC.
Under Makenga’s leadership, M23 made significant territorial gains, including the capture of Goma in 2012. However, he faces numerous war crime allegations, including the use of child soldiers and violence against civilians, leading to sanctions from the U.S. Despite his denials, he has continued to command respect within the movement.
In recent years, the M23 has regained strength, with allegations of Rwandan support. Makenga’s visibility has decreased, as he delegates speaking roles to others, yet he remains a strategic figure behind the scenes. If captured, he faces the death penalty in the DRC, highlighting the complex and violent history of the region, where ordinary civilians bear the brunt of the ongoing conflict.
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