Changes at the head of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). Félix Tshisekedi made a series of appointments in a context of increasing violence in the east of the country and the progression of the M23, particularly in the Lubero territory, in North Kivu. Among these decisions, the replacement of the chief of general staff of the FARDC.
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With our correspondent in Kinshasa, Patient Ligodi
Army General Christian Tshiwewe Songesha gives up his place at the head of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo after two years in office.
Former commander of the Republican Guard, he was promoted to chief of general staff in October 2022 with the mission of countering the advance of the M23, a rebel movement supported by Rwanda.
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However, the security situation has deteriorated.
To date, the M23 controls vast territories in North Kivu, including Masisi, Rutshuru, Walikale, Nyiragongo and Lubero, areas whose extent is now twice that occupied in 2012.
Army General Tshiwewe is appointed military advisor to President Félix Tshisekedi.
Lieutenant General Banza Mwilambwe Jules appointed head of the general staff
His successor as head of the FARDC general staff is Lieutenant General Banza Mwilambwe Jules, a trained artillery officer.
Before his promotion, the latter held the position of deputy head of the military household of the Head of State, responsible for operations and intelligence. One of the president’s trusted men, he had previously served as deputy commander of the Republican Guard.
Another prominent change concerns the military intelligence staff.
Major General Christian Ndaywel, who was in charge, is now assigned to command the land forces.
Several other appointments and permutations notably affect the commands of defense zones and military bases.
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