Authorities under the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) have announced a fresh wave of administrative appointments in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, naming new city and territorial leaders in South Kivu Province as part of efforts to strengthen governance in areas under their control.
In a decision issued on Saturday, June 6, 2026, AFC/M23 leadership approved the appointment of a new City Mayor and Deputy City Mayor for Bukavu, alongside mayors and deputy mayors for the communes of Bagira, Ibanda and Kadutu.
According to Decision No. 033/COORDO-PR/AFC-M23/2026, signed in Goma, Kyalangalilwa Mulondani Nicolas was appointed City Mayor of Bukavu, while Nyota Luandja Céline was named Deputy City Mayor.
The movement also designated commune leaders for Bukavu’s municipalities. Shaka Muhoza and Bahaya Léon were appointed Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Bagira Commune, respectively. In Ibanda Commune, Mweze Prisca was named Mayor, assisted byMutunwa Mbulanga as Deputy Mayor. Kadutu Commune will be led by Ruremesha Théo as Mayor and Cikuru Barhakaziga Pascaline as Deputy Mayor.
Beyond Bukavu City, AFC/M23 appointed territorial administrators and assistant administrators across several territories in South Kivu, including Idjwi, Kabare, Kalehe and Walungu. The appointments also extended to Minova Town, where Sengimana Ruhungande Augustin was named Town Chief, deputized by Mahombi Mutumai.
The rebel alliance said the appointments were necessary to fill vacancies in administrative offices and improve governance in what it described as “liberated territories.” The decision cited transparency, good governance and bringing administration closer to local populations among the reasons for the restructuring.
According to Bertrand Bisimwa, the movement’s Deputy Coordinator in charge of Political, Administrative, Legal and Diplomatic Affairs and President of M23, the appointments take immediate effect and repeal previous provisions contrary to the new decision.
The latest appointments come amid ongoing political and security tensions in eastern DRC, where AFC/M23 continues to maintain influence in parts of North and South Kivu.
