AFC/M23 has announced a new political doctrine known as “Ordo ab Chao,” a vision it says will guide its efforts to reshape the Democratic Republic of Congo amid a prolonged political and security crisis.
The announcement came through a statement issued by AFC/M23 political spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, who responded to recent remarks made by President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi during a gathering with Congolese citizens in Houston, Texas.
Speaking to members of the Congolese diaspora, Tshisekedi declared that government forces were gaining ground against their opponents and would eventually regain control of the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu, which have remained under AFC/M23 administration for more than a year.
The Congolese president also reaffirmed that the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity were non-negotiable and would never be subject to compromise.
AFC/M23 rejected those remarks, arguing that such statements contradict the spirit of de-escalation and peace efforts aimed at reducing tensions in the country. According to the movement, confrontational rhetoric risks deepening divisions among Congolese citizens rather than encouraging reconciliation.
The group further accused authorities in Kinshasa of being responsible for years of political instability, insecurity and humanitarian challenges that continue to affect millions of people across the country.
At the center of AFC/M23’s new political message is the phrase “Ordo ab Chao,” a Latin expression meaning “Order from Chaos.”
Historically associated with philosophical and historical discussions about transformation, the phrase reflects the idea that periods of disorder can create opportunities for the emergence of a new and more stable system.
AFC/M23 says the concept represents its long-term vision for a reformed Democratic Republic of Congo built on justice, accountability, national unity and equal citizenship.
Under this proposed framework, the movement argues that the rule of law should replace governance driven by force, political patronage or institutional weakness. It maintains that all citizens should enjoy equal rights and that public officials must be held accountable for their actions.
The coalition also reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and their property in areas under its control while advocating for broader governance reforms across the country.
According to AFC/M23, “Ordo ab Chao” is more than a political slogan. The movement describes it as a roadmap intended to restore confidence among Congolese citizens and lay the foundation for a future based on peace, justice, stability and national cohesion.
As debates over the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo continue, the unveiling of “Ordo ab Chao” is likely to become a significant talking point in the country’s political landscape, particularly as competing visions emerge regarding governance, security and the path toward lasting peace.
