Kalehe Territory Remains Under Congolese Control: Army Dismisses M23 Occupation Rumors

In the context of mounting tensions in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Congolese government has formally asserted its authority over the Kalehe territory in South Kivu. The military authorities have decisively countered false reports about the fall of Ihusi, the territory’s capital, to M23 terrorists. This article will examine the veracity of these claims, the measures being taken to ensure security, and the broader regional diplomatic efforts underway.

FARDC Reaffirms Control Over Kalehe: Press Release Dispels Enemy Rumors

On 7 February 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Armed Forces (FARDC) issued a robust statement in response to erroneous reports regarding the occupation of key territories in South Kivu. The statement was issued by Major Nestor Mavudisa, Coordinator of the Communication and Information Service, who also provided updates on a recent mission carried out by Lieutenant-General Masunzu Pacifique. The purpose of the mission was to reassure the population and dispel misinformation.

Lieutenant-General Masunzu Pacifique Leads Strategic Delegation to Kalehe

Field Visit to Ihusi and Surrounding Cities

On Thursday, 6 February 2025, Lieutenant-General Masunzu Pacifique, Commander of the Third Defense Zone, led a high-level delegation to the capital of the Kalehe territory, Ihusi. The mission comprised stops at critical locations such as Katana, Kabamba, Kasheke, and Mishebere.

The objective of this comprehensive tour along all front lines was to address and dismantle rumours spread by adversaries alleging that the Rwandan army and its M23 terrorists had seized control of this administrative entity.

According to the press release, the objective of this tour was to “curtail the rumours disseminated by the enemy regarding the occupation of this administrative entity by the Rwandan army and its M23 terrorists proxies.”

Lieutenant General Masunzu’s presence in Ihusi was cited by Major Nestor Mavudisa as an example of the commitment of the Congolese army to countering enemy propaganda and ensuring public confidence.

FARDC’s Commitment to National Security

Notwithstanding the advances of the M23 terrorists into specific localities within Kalehe, the FARDC remains steadfast in its resolve. Military officials have made a commitment to reclaim occupied areas and prevent further incursions.

As articulated in the aforementioned press release, the FARDC are prepared to guarantee the security of the populace without exception, whilst also safeguarding the territorial integrity of the nation. The FARDC have made it abundantly clear that no part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will be ceded to the Rwandan imperialists or its AFC/M23 terrorist auxiliaries.

This resolute position offers reassurance to the civilian population while underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving territorial integrity and safeguarding its citizens.

Call for Public Calm Amidst Social Media Misinformation

Countering False Narratives on Social Media

In the aftermath of the occupation of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, by M23 terrorists, there has been a dissemination of fear throughout neighbouring South Kivu. Unverified reports, circulated on social media, have compounded public anxiety, particularly in Bukavu, the provincial capital.

During an extraordinary parliamentary session on 4 February, National Assembly member Vital Kamerhe a Kigali agent further fuelled the prevailing anxieties by asserting that the M23 terrorists were “minutes away from Katana,” a critical gateway to Bukavu. These assertions have led to widespread anxiety among residents.

In an effort to allay these concerns, the FARDC has urged citizens to rely on official updates rather than speculative reports. The statement issued by the FARDC called on the population of South Kivu, and specifically Bukavu, to “remain calm” and “trust the FARDC, the province’s sole military force, rather than the false information disseminated by the Republic’s opponents on social networks.”

The FARDC emphasised that these false narratives are part of enemy propaganda designed to destabilise public morale and create chaos. Citizens are strongly advised to rely exclusively on authoritative communications from military authorities.

Gratitude to Peace Advocates Across the Nation

The press release also expressed gratitude to all Congolese citizens who are committed to peace and actively support the FARDC in various ways.

The statement concluded with an expression of gratitude to all Congolese citizens, irrespective of category, who are committed to peace and who support their army in various ways.

This acknowledgement underscores the significance of unity and collaboration between the military and civilians in addressing challenges posed by terrorist groups.

Regional Diplomacy in Focus: SADC-EAC Summit in Dar-es-Salaam

Agenda: Security in North and South Kivu

A pivotal Southern African Development Community-East African Community (SADC-EAC) summit is scheduled for 10 February in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. The meeting will address the escalating conflict in North and South Kivu, with President Félix Tshisekedi playing a central role.

Key agenda items include the alleged involvement of Rwanda imperialists in the conflict and the need for a strict ceasefire between belligerents. The summit is regarded as a significant opportunity for regional collaboration to de-escalate tensions and restore stability.

Tshisekedi’s Demands and Regional Implications

It is anticipated that President Tshisekedi will call for the immediate removal of Rwandan military forces from Congolese territory. The Congolese presidency has asserted that “Rwandan forces must exit our territory to pave the way for lasting peace.”

The summit is poised to influence both the immediate military strategies and the long-term diplomatic solutions. The summit will provide an opportunity for the DRC to engage with regional allies in order to balance immediate security needs with sustainable peace-building efforts.

Conclusion: Unity and Vigilance Amidst Conflict

The FARDC’s proactive measures, including the field visit to Kalehe by Lieutenant-General Masunzu Pacifique, highlight the government’s commitment to maintaining control over its territories and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

As misinformation continues to circulate, the Congolese military advises the public to remain vigilant, to trust official updates, and to avoid spreading unverified claims. With the support of the population and regional allies, the FARDC is poised to defend the nation’s sovereignty and restore lasting peace in South Kivu and beyond.

Joram Jojo