North Kivu Governor Killed Amid Escalating M23 Insurgency in Eastern DR Congo

Peter Cirimwami, Governor of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has reportedly been killed by rebels from the Rwanda-backed M23 group, according to UN records cited by Reuters and AFP. The tragic incident occurred on Thursday while the governor was visiting the frontline amidst ongoing combat in the region.

The M23 insurgency, which has intensified since the start of the year, has resulted in over 200 civilian deaths and displaced nearly 400,000 people. The group has seized several cities, including Masisi, Minova, and Sake, as they advance toward the strategic city of Goma.  

Goma, a city of over one million people near the Rwandan border, faces a dire humanitarian crisis. The rebels have blocked major roads, cutting off vital supplies and access to the city. Local officials describe Goma as “suffocated,” with hospitals overwhelmed by injured residents fleeing the violence.

Displaced families are desperately seeking safety, some using overcrowded wooden boats or carrying their belongings on their backs. Tragically, two children were reportedly killed in a bomb attack on a camp for displaced persons. Thousands of families continue to search for refuge in Goma and surrounding areas.  

Local union leader Bahala Shamavu Innocent stated, “The town of Goma is held in a vice. This population is suffering enormously.” Similarly, Espoir Ngalukiye, a member of the opposition Ensemble pour la République party, expressed fears for residents’ safety, saying, “In Goma, we are not safe. No one who lives here can say they are without fear.”  

Amid the crisis, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi cut short his visit to the World Economic Forum in Davos to return to the DRC for emergency security briefings. The Congolese government, along with the United Nations and other international organizations, has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels. UN experts estimate that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan troops are involved in the conflict, though Rwanda has neither confirmed nor denied the allegations.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the situation could escalate into a regional war. He urged all parties to respect the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and to cease supporting armed groups.