The AFC/M23 coalition has announced a sweeping administrative reshuffle across South Kivu, appointing a new city leadership for Bukavu as well as fresh territorial and municipal officials in several areas under its control.
The appointments were made public on June 6, 2026, through Decision No. 033/COORDO-PR/AFC-M23/2026, a measure that updates and expands previous administrative decisions issued by the movement.
According to the coalition, the restructuring is intended to strengthen local governance, improve public administration, and bring leadership closer to communities. The decision emphasizes transparency, good governance, and the urgent need to organize territorial administration in what AFC/M23 describes as liberated areas.
At the center of the announcement is the city of Bukavu, where Kyalangalilwa Mulondani Nicolas has been appointed Mayor. He will be assisted by Nyota Luandja Céline, who takes office as Deputy Mayor.
Changes were also introduced across Bukavu’s three municipalities.
In Bagira Municipality, Shaka Muhoza was named Mayor, with Bahaya Léon serving as Deputy Mayor.
Ibanda Municipality will now be led by Mweze Prisca, assisted by Mutunwa Mbulanga.
Meanwhile, Ruremesha Théo was appointed Mayor of Kadutu Municipality, while Cikuru Barhakaziga Pascaline was named Deputy Mayor.
Beyond Bukavu, AFC/M23 announced new territorial administrators in several strategic areas of South Kivu.
In Idjwi Territory, Ntambuka Pascal was appointed Territorial Administrator, assisted by Mwimbirisa Bulikoko René.
Kabare Territory will be headed by Elie Rubabura Espoir, with Kasindi Kingombe Benjamin serving as Assistant Administrator.
In Kalehe, Buseyi Jean Bosco was appointed Territorial Administrator, while Muhamuka Mweze Amza was named Assistant Administrator.
Walungu Territory will now be administered by Shengamungu Anastasie, assisted by Tumusifu Félicien.
The coalition also introduced a new administration for the town of Minova. Sengimana Ruhungande Augustin was appointed Town Chief, while Mahombi Mutumai will serve as Deputy Town Chief.
In its decision, AFC/M23 stated that the appointments were necessary to fill vacant positions and ensure the effective functioning of local institutions. The movement noted that vacancies had existed in several key administrative offices, including the mayoralty of Bukavu, municipal administrations, and territorial leadership structures across South Kivu.
The latest appointments come as AFC/M23 continues efforts to establish administrative institutions in territories under its control. The coalition argues that functioning local governance is essential for delivering services and maintaining order in the region.
At the same time, the developments highlight the ongoing political and military contest over authority in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. While AFC/M23 presents the appointments as part of a governance agenda, the government in Kinshasa continues to reject institutions established by the movement and maintains that such structures lack legal recognition under the Congolese state.
Observers believe the creation of new leadership teams in Bukavu, Minova, Kabare, Kalehe, Walungu, and Idjwi reflects AFC/M23’s broader strategy of consolidating administrative control while expanding its governance framework in areas under its influence.
The reshuffle marks one of the most significant administrative changes announced by the coalition in South Kivu this year and is likely to shape local governance dynamics in the months ahead.
