DR CONGO: M23 Rebel group claims territorial control, raises concerns in eastern region

By Ollus Ndomu

Instability is slowly setting in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as the M23 rebel group has declared the establishment of its own administration in eastern regions.

Bertrand Bisimwa, the political leader of M23, made this announcement in an official statement published on X, revealing the group’s move to install an administration in the Rutshuru territory of North Kivu.

As part of their asserted territorial control, new leaders have reportedly been appointed in the towns of Kiwanja, Rubare, and Bunagana, all located within North Kivu. The M23 rebels currently hold sway over a significant portion of Rutshuru and Masisi, encompassing two out of the five territories constituting North Kivu province.

These territories lie approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of the provincial capital, Goma, intensifying concerns about the group’s intentions and the potential creation of a separate state.

The timing of this move, closely following President Felix Tshisekedi’s second-term inauguration, adds a layer of complexity, especially amid allegations of widespread electoral irregularities by the opposition.

Rebel assertion of control raises questions about the stability of the region and the potential impact on the broader political landscape in the DRC.

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Ollus Ndhomu

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