One year after M23 rebels seized Goma, eastern Congo’s mineral-rich hub is again at the center of controversy, this time over a US–DRC critical minerals deal. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the rebel coalition that includes M23, has denounced the deal as unconstitutional and flawed, citing opaque negotiations and procedural violations. His claims cast significant doubt on the pact’s feasibility, especially since key mining areas like Rubaya are under rebel control. Nangaa warned that mining sites offered to Washington may already be promised to other partners, potentially sparking future disputes. The Congolese presidency dismissed these concerns as speculative, asserting the deal falls within the government’s constitutional powers and will be presented to parliament.
Reuters
