In a dramatic turn of events, the March 23 Movement (M23) has declared a new government in North Kivu, appointing key leaders as they tighten their grip on the province.
This move follows the group’s rapid military advances, including the capture of Goma, the provincial capital, which sent shockwaves across the region.
The rebel group announced Joseph Bahati Musanga as the new Governor of North Kivu, with Willy Manzi Ngarambe and Shadrak Amani Bahati assuming roles as Vice-Governors overseeing political, legal, and economic affairs.
The appointments were formalized by M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa and approved by Corneille Nangaa, the coordinator of the Alliance Fleuve Congo.
The power shift comes after M23 declared a unilateral ceasefire, signaling a shift from battlefield dominance to political consolidation.
The group has emphasized governance as its new priority, focusing on administrative control, resource management, and regional stability.
“The new leadership is tasked with ensuring political stability and long-term development in North Kivu,” Bisimwa stated in an official communication. He also confirmed that all previous governance structures had been dissolved.
Reactions to M23’s bold move have been mixed. While some see it as a step towards organized governance, others remain wary of the group’s long-term intentions.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, questioning whether the ceasefire will hold or if the province will descend into further conflict.
1 comment
M23 has really made it, how do you become a president where you have never stepped.
Congratulations to m23