AFC/M23 faces internal power struggles amid fighting in eastern DR Congo

The AFC/M23 alliance is facing internal instability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as power struggles between its political and military wings intensify. Disputes regarding command, appointments, and territorial control have led to internal investigations and arrests. Tensions escalated following the arrest of Theo Binamungu, a political adviser, amid allegations of a plan to sideline senior military commander Sultani Makenga. The rivalry between the civilian leadership, led by Corneille Nangaa, and the military command threatens the group's cohesion and its ability to negotiate with the government in Kinshasa.

Simultaneously, active combat continues in the Masisi territory of North Kivu. On October 3, the Congolese army (FARDC) and Wazalendo militia groups regained control of Remeka and several neighboring localities in the Ufamandu Ier groupement after hours of fighting. The area, which has changed hands multiple times since July, is strategically significant for controlling access to the Rubaya mining center and the Ngungu agro-pastoral center.