The Cellule de Communication of the Haut-Uele provincial government has swiftly responded to allegations suggesting Governor Jean Bakomito Gambu maintains covert ties with Corneille Nangaa. This follows a recent report questioning his alleged complicity in regional instability.

Government clarifies claims of economic paralysis and protests

In an official statement, Muammar Awoni, Head of the Cellcom, dismissed reports of an economic shutdown in Isiro on June 17, 2026, as baseless. He emphasized that local businesses operated normally, with no disruptions reported. Similarly, claims of school closures were refuted, attributing them to the end-of-academic-year schedule, not protests.

The statement further questioned the factual basis for associating Governor Bakomito with Corneille Nangaa, whose alleged collaboration with foreign armed groups has drawn widespread condemnation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Governor’s security efforts highlighted

Governor Bakomito has been a vocal advocate for restoring peace in Haut-Uele, actively rallying public support against destabilizing forces. His administration has bolstered security measures, including logistical support for the FARDC (Armed Forces of the DRC) through vehicle and equipment donations. In Watsa and Mungbere, where ADF incursions have been reported, security operations remain under close military supervision, with high-level oversight from Kinshasa ensuring sustained efforts to neutralize threats.

Response to smear campaign

The Cellcom condemned what it described as a deliberate smear campaign to tarnish the governor’s reputation. It reaffirmed his commitment to the national vision of peace, security, and development under President Félix Tshisekedi, rejecting accusations of collusion with destabilizing actors.

In conclusion, the statement urged media outlets to uphold journalistic integrity by verifying claims before publication, warning against the dissemination of unverified information that could harm reputations. The Cellcom reiterated Governor Bakomito’s unwavering dedication to defending the province against internal and external threats.

— Muammar Awoni, Head of the Haut-Uele Provincial Communication Cell