Fatshimetrie, July 22, 2024 – A recent announcement relayed on social networks has sowed doubt and concern about possible negotiations between the Congolese government and the March 23 Movement (M23)/RDF. However, after a thorough investigation, it turns out that this information is erroneous and constitutes fake news.
Note No. 288/PR/PDDRCS/CN/JBB/2024 of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Program (P-DDRCS) of July 18, 2024 mentioned the alleged mission of Abbot Bahala OKW’IBALE LUSHEKE JEAN BOSCO as National Coordinator to negotiate with members of the M23 in Kampala. However, when contacted to clarify the situation, Father Bahala categorically denied these allegations. He explained that he was in Uganda as part of a profiling mission aimed at facilitating the repatriation of Congolese children released by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the Central African Republic.
The Congolese government, through its spokesperson Patrick Muyaya, also affirmed that no negotiations with the M23 were underway. Thus, rumors and misinformation circulating on social media have been dispelled.
The notion of “profiling” mentioned by Father Bahala deserves to be clarified. This is a process of identification and collection of information aimed at better understanding the situation of repatriated Congolese children and facilitating their reintegration into their families. This analysis and monitoring work is essential to ensure the well-being and safety of these young people.
Ultimately, this case highlights the importance of checking your sources and not being influenced by unverified information. In a context where fake news proliferates, it is essential to favor transparency and objectivity to preserve the truth and credibility of the facts.