The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government has taken a bold step in the fight against the M23 rebel group by announcing a $5 million reward for any information that leads to the arrest of three key figures associated with the group. These individuals include Corneille Nangaa, Sultani Makenga, and Bertrand Bisimwa.
Corneille Nangaa, the former head of DRC’s electoral commission, is now leading the Congo River Alliance, which includes M23. He has been actively addressing large rallies in cities under the group’s control, making him a significant figure within the rebel organization.
Last year, a military court sentenced these three men to death in absentia for treason. Despite the bounty on their heads, apprehending them remains a challenge due to the recent military successes of the rebels, including the capture of Goma and Bukavu, major cities in eastern DRC.
In addition to the reward for the arrest of the three key figures, the government is offering a $4 million bounty for the capture of two exiled journalists and other accomplices. The escalating conflict has prompted President Félix Tshisekedi to seek international support in imposing sanctions on Rwanda, which is accused of backing the M23 rebels—a claim that Rwanda vehemently denies.
The ongoing violence in the region has resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, leading to a worsening humanitarian crisis and significant instability. In response to these developments, Germany has suspended new financial aid to Rwanda, citing its alleged support for the M23 rebels.
The DRC government’s initiative to offer rewards for the arrest of key figures associated with the M23 rebel group demonstrates its commitment to combating the insurgency and restoring peace and stability in the region. With international support and cooperation, it is hoped that these efforts will lead to the apprehension of the individuals responsible for the violence and bring an end to the conflict plaguing the Democratic Republic of Congo.
