In response to an earlier interrogative article titled “Insecurity in Isiro: Is Jean Bakomito paving the way for Corneille Nangaa?”, the Communication Unit of the Haut-Uele governorship swiftly issued a defensive statement. Below is the full text provided by Muammar Awoni, head of this Cellcom:

I wish to provide some clarifications regarding the article published by your media outlet.

Firstly, contrary to what was reported, no paralysis of economic activities was observed in Isiro, in Haut-Uele province, on June 17, 2026. A thorough verification with local stakeholders would confirm that this information is not based on any proven facts.

Secondly, your article mentioned the absence of school activities. However, in accordance with the academic calendar of the Democratic Republic of Congo, educational institutions are generally concluding their academic year in June. Furthermore, no demonstration was organized in Isiro on June 17, 2026.

Therefore, on what objective evidence does your media base its assertion that Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu is close to or supports Corneille Nangaa?

It is important to reiterate that Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu’s commitment to restoring peace throughout the Haut-Uele province is widely recognized. He stands among the leading figures in the Greater Oriental region who are actively mobilizing public awareness against the machinations of the Republic’s adversaries, particularly those allied with Paul Kagame, including Corneille Nangaa. The latter is currently regarded by many Congolese as one of the principal architects of the violence that has claimed thousands of compatriots’ lives in the eastern part of the country through attacks perpetrated by the AFC/M23.

In line with this commitment, urban banditry incidents that had temporarily disrupted peace in Isiro city have been brought under control, and no major security incidents are currently reported there.

In the Watsa territory, specifically in Mungbere, where incursions by suspected ADF elements were reported, the security situation remains under control thanks to the professionalism of the FARDC. The presence of the FARDC Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Intelligence in the province underscores the particular attention the President of the Republic dedicates to this security issue. Sweeping operations continue to ensure lasting peace and facilitate the return of displaced populations to their homes.

As part of this security endeavor, Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu has supplied the FARDC with several vehicles and significant logistical resources to enhance the effectiveness of operations on the ground.

Given these facts, the accusations leveled against the provincial authority appear unfounded and seem to stem more from a desire to tarnish his public image.

Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu remains a resolute defender of his province against the Republic’s enemies. Despite the smear campaigns he faces, he remains determined to thwart all those seeking to destabilize the country.

Finally, he continues to act in accordance with the vision championed by the President of the Republic, His Excellency Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, for the consolidation of peace, security, and development in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the name of truth and journalistic ethics, we urge your media outlet to exercise greater rigor in processing information and to conduct necessary verifications before any publication that could harm the reputation of individuals or institutions concerned.

Muammar Awoni, Head of the Haut-Uele Governorship Communication Unit.

The editorial team takes note of this clarification. However, we offer the following observations:

1. To deny that Isiro city experienced a paralysis on June 17 is akin to someone trying to hide their face with a finger. This is not without reason, as in his reaction to an article by another colleague who addressed the same topic, titling it “Haut-Uélé: Isiro in turmoil, the governor under pressure amid suspicions linked to Nangaa,” the Provincial Minister of Communication and Media, Government Spokesperson, ARAMA ODINGO-KIRO Emmanuel, explicitly stated: “The Provincial Government does not dispute the population’s right to peacefully and legally express its concerns. It takes every security-related claim seriously. However, a demonstration or a day of activity paralysis cannot be transformed into proof of alleged complicity between the Governor and an armed movement.” What more can be said?

2. The accusation of complicity with Corneille Nangaa did not originate from this publication. The online media merely reported what was being said about Governor Bakomito during this critical period. It conveyed this by indirectly posing the question in the article’s title. This prompted your clarification, aiming to put an end to rumors and false accusations, if indeed they are false.