Following a recent report that raised questions about security in Isiro and possible links between Governor Jean Bakomito and rebel leader Corneille Nangaa, the Haut-Uele governorate’s communications cell (Cellcom) issued a swift rebuttal. Below is the full statement from Muammar Awoni, head of the communications unit:
I wish to provide some clarifications regarding the article published by your media.
First, contrary to what was reported, no paralysis of economic activities was observed in Isiro, Haut-Uele province, on June 17, 2026. A proper check with local stakeholders would confirm that this information is baseless.
Second, your article mentions a lack of school activities. However, according to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s academic calendar, schools are typically at the end of the academic year in June. Furthermore, no march took place in Isiro on June 17, 2026.
Given these facts, on what objective grounds does your media label Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu as an ally or supporter of Corneille Nangaa?
It should be recalled that Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu’s commitment to restoring peace across Haut-Uele is widely acknowledged. He is among the prominent figures of Greater Orientale who tirelessly work to raise public awareness against the maneuvers of enemies of the republic, particularly those allied with Paul Kagame, including Corneille Nangaa. This latter is now seen by many Congolese as a key perpetrator of the violence that has cost thousands of lives in eastern DRC through attacks by the AFC/M23.
As part of this effort, the urban banditry that briefly disrupted the calm of Isiro has been contained, and no major security incidents are currently reported there.
In Watsa territory, especially in Mungbere where incursions by suspected ADF elements have been reported, the security situation is under control thanks to the professionalism of the FARDC. The presence in the province of the Deputy Chief of General Staff of the FARDC in charge of operations and intelligence reflects the special attention President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo gives to this security issue. Sweep operations continue to restore lasting peace and facilitate the return of displaced populations to their homes.
In support of this security drive, Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu has supplied the FARDC with several vehicles and significant logistics to enhance the effectiveness of field operations.
Given these facts, the accusations against the provincial authority appear unfounded and seem intended solely to tarnish his image in public opinion.
Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu remains a staunch defender of his province against enemies of the republic. Despite smear campaigns, he is determined to block anyone seeking to destabilize the country.
Finally, he continues his work within the vision of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo for consolidating peace, security, and development in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In the name of truth and journalistic ethics, we urge your media to exercise greater rigor in information processing and to verify facts before publishing anything that might harm the reputation of individuals or institutions.
Muammar Awoni, Head of the Communications Cell of the Haut-Uele Governorate.
Editor’s note: The editorial board acknowledges this clarification but makes the following observations:
1. Denying that Isiro experienced a paralysis on June 17 is akin to someone hiding their face with a finger. This is not without reason, as the provincial minister of communication and media, spokesman of the government, Arama Odingo-Kiro Emmanuel, in his reaction to the same topic, wrote exactly: “The provincial government does not contest the right of the population to express their concerns peacefully and legally. It takes every security-related demand seriously. However, a demonstration or a day of activity paralysis cannot be turned into proof of an alleged complicity of the Governor with an armed movement.” Who can say better?
2. The accusation of connivance with Corneille Nangaa does not originate from this report. This article merely reflects what is being said about Governor Bakomito during this critical period. The article indirectly posed the question in its title, which prompted your clarification to cut short rumors and false accusations, if indeed they are false.
