Takeover of the town of Mushaki by the armed forces of the DRC (FARDC)
In a significant step forward, the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) announced the recapture of the town of Mushaki, located about forty kilometers from Goma, in the territory of Masisi. This military operation was carried out with the support of the regional force of the East African Community (EAC), deployed in the area after the withdrawal of the M23 rebels.
This reconquest marks the first entity taken over by the FARDC in an area where the regional EAC force has been deployed since November 2022. The interim governor and commander of operations in North Kivu, Major General Peter Chirimwami Nkuba, spoke went there to confirm the resumption of Mushaki.
The inhabitants of Mushaki welcomed the return of the Congolese army to their locality and expressed the need for a police presence to guarantee their security. The head of the Mupfunyi Matanda group, Muishuko Fikiri, highlighted the arrival of the soldiers and spoke of sending an additional battalion to strengthen security.
Civil society in Masisi, represented by Télésphore Mitondeke, also called for the resumption of all areas still occupied by armed groups. This reconquest of Mushaki marks a step forward in efforts to restore state authority and ensure the security of local populations.
The interim governor recalled the clear message from the Congolese head of state, stressing that there would be no negotiations with armed groups. He encouraged those in enemy ranks who consider themselves Congolese to surrender and follow the process of disarmament, demobilization and community reintegration (P-DDRC). As for foreigners, they are invited to return to their country of origin.
This Mushaki recapture operation is an important step in the fight against armed groups and the restoration of peace in the region. The FARDC and the EAC regional force will continue to work together to combat hostile forces and ensure the security of the Congolese population. Mushaki’s release is a step towards a more peaceful and stable future for the Democratic Republic of Congo.