At the end of October 2008 and in November 2008, in the context of generalized fighting in North Kivu between the Congolese-Tutsi rebel group Congrès national pour la Défense du Peuple (CNDP) and the Congolese National Armed Forces ( Forces Armées de la République Démocratique du Congo – FARDC) supported by other forces (local Mayi Mayi militias and Rwandan-Hutu FDLR militia), the CNDP managed to secure several strategic positions and subsequently launched large scale operations in two different directions, South towards Goma, the provincial capital, and North towards the large urban centre of Rutshuru. The FARDC troops charged with the defence of both axes retreated further South through Goma town and towards South Kivu; and North into Lubero territory through Kanyabayonga.

This report deals primarily with the serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed both in Goma and in several towns and villages of Lubero territory, including Kanyabayonga, by FARDC elements during their withdrawal and highlights the need for profound reforms to be undertaken by the FARDC to enable it to fully and properly play its constitutional role.

Date of publication: 9 September 2009

Original language: English