M23 Boss is back- Corneille Nangaa
Introduction
Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo is a Congolese politician and rebel leader who has become a prominent figure in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Here are the key points about Nangaa and his current role:
Background and Political Career
Born on July 9, 1970, in Bagboya, Haut-Uele, DRC.
Graduated from the University of Kinshasa with a degree in economics.
Served as the president of the DRC’s Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) from 2015 to 2021.
Oversaw the controversial 2018 general election, which resulted in Felix Tshisekedi becoming president.
Rebel Leadership
In August 2023, Nangaa announced the creation of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), or Congo River Alliance.
The AFC is a coalition of rebel groups, including the March 23 Movement (M23), political parties, and armed militias.
M23 is considered the military wing of the AFC.
Nangaa serves as the political leader of the AFC.
Recent Developments
In August 2024, a military court in Kinshasa sentenced Nangaa to death in absentia for treason, insurrection, and war crimes.
The AFC and M23 have recently captured Goma, an important city in eastern DRC.
Nangaa has declared that the rebels are “in Goma to stay” and will continue their “march of liberation to Kinshasa”.
He has pledged to work with public servants and bank institutions in Goma and end the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.
International Response
The United States Treasury Department sanctioned Nangaa in March 2019 for “undermining DRC elections”.
The UN, France, the UK, and the US have urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces from Congo, as Rwanda is accused of supporting the M23 rebels.
Conclusion
Nangaa’s transformation from electoral commission chief to rebel leader marks a significant shift in DRC’s political landscape, with potential implications for the country’s stability and future.