The Congolese government has dismissed Kenya’s decision to appoint a consul general to Goma, calling the move inappropriate and a breach of protocol.
Authorities in Kinshasa argued that the appointment ignored the country’s sovereignty and could be seen as recognizing rebel control of the city.
Goma, in eastern Congo, has been under the grip of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels since January after a swift assault forced government forces to withdraw.
The group, which claims to be part of the Congo River Alliance, has expanded territory in the region and attempted to set up its own administration.
It has also been accused of grave human rights abuses as violence continues to displace hundreds of thousands of people.
Congo stressed that Nairobi made the announcement without prior consultation, defying established diplomatic practice.
The rejection comes at a time when regional tensions are already high, with Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and Kenya all having troops deployed in the area.
A recent declaration brokered by Qatar raised hopes for peace, but negotiations have since collapsed, leading to renewed clashes.
Analysts warn that Kenya’s move could strain its relations with Kinshasa, particularly as President William Ruto’s government has drawn closer to Rwanda.
The decision risks complicating regional mediation efforts aimed at ending decades of conflict in eastern Congo.