In response to reports questioning whether Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu of Haut-Uele Province may be aligned with Corneille Nangaa, the provincial government’s communication unit has issued a firm rebuttal. Below is the full statement provided by Muammar Awoni, head of the Haut-Uele Governance Communication Cell:

I am compelled to address several inaccuracies in the claims made in the article. First, there was no disruption of economic activities in Isiro, the provincial capital, on June 17, 2026. Local business leaders confirm that this assertion lacks any factual basis. Second, the article refers to an alleged absence of school activities, a claim that ignores the standard academic calendar. By mid-June, schools in the Democratic Republic of the Congo typically conclude their academic year, and no protests were recorded in Isiro on the specified date.

The central question remains: what credible evidence supports the suggestion that Governor Bakomito is a close ally or supporter of Corneille Nangaa? The Governor has consistently demonstrated his commitment to peace and stability across Haut-Uele. His leadership has positioned him among the most prominent figures in the Greater Orientale region, actively mobilizing communities to resist destabilizing forces—particularly those reportedly allied with Paul Kagame, including Corneille Nangaa. The latter is widely viewed by many Congolese as a key figure behind the violence that has claimed thousands of lives in the eastern DRC, particularly through the actions of the M23/AFC.

The Governor has taken decisive measures to restore security in Isiro. Urban crime incidents that briefly disrupted public order have been effectively contained, with no major security incidents reported in recent weeks. In Watsa territory, particularly in Mungbere, where suspected ADF incursions were noted, the situation remains under control thanks to the professionalism of the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC). The deployment of the FARDC’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Intelligence underscores the government’s prioritization of this crisis. Ongoing military operations aim to permanently restore peace and facilitate the return of displaced populations to their homes.

In support of these efforts, Governor Bakomito has provided the FARDC with logistical resources, including multiple vehicles and essential operational supplies, to enhance their effectiveness on the ground.

The allegations against the provincial leadership appear unfounded and seem designed to tarnish Governor Bakomito’s reputation. Despite smear campaigns, he remains steadfast in his mission to protect the province from destabilizing forces and uphold the vision of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi for peace, security, and development in the DRC.

In the spirit of journalistic integrity and truth, we urge media outlets to exercise greater diligence in verifying facts before publishing content that could unjustly harm the reputation of individuals or institutions.

Muammar Awoni, Head of the Haut-Uele Governance Communication Cell

Note: While we acknowledge the statement from the Haut-Uele authorities, we stand by our original reporting. The claim of a city-wide paralysis on June 17 was not fabricated. In response to a similar article published by another outlet titled “Haut-Uélé: Isiro in turmoil, governor under pressure amid Nangaa allegations,” provincial communication minister and government spokesperson ARAMA ODINGO-KIRO Emmanuel stated: “The provincial government does not dispute the right of citizens to peacefully express their concerns. Each security-related claim is taken seriously. However, a demonstration or day of paralysis cannot be used as evidence of alleged complicity between the Governor and an armed group.”

The accusations linking Governor Bakomito to Corneille Nangaa were not fabricated by our outlet. We reported what was being discussed publicly about the Governor during this critical period. The article’s phrasing was intended to prompt a response, which we have now received in the form of this rebuttal.