Tshisekedi Replaces Army Chief in DR Congo in Major Military Change

President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has made important changes to the military. This decision comes as fighting continues in the east of the country.Lt-Gen Jules Banza Mwilambwe has been chosen as the new Chief of General Staff of the Congolese army.

He replaces General Christian Tshiwewe Songesha, who had held the position for a little over two years. General Songesha has now been made an adviser to the President. According to a statement on state TV, the changes were made because of "necessity and urgency."

Mwilambwe was previously the deputy head of the Military House, responsible for operations and intelligence. This part of the army helps the President with security and defense strategies.

Other significant changes include a new leader for the Republican Guard, which protects the President. General Pacifique Masunzu is now in charge of North Kivu, an area currently affected by conflict.

He replaces General Chico Tshitambwe, who moves to oversee the First Defence Zone, which includes Kinshasa and nearby areas.Maj-Gen Bitangalo has taken charge of the Second Defence Zone, while General Christian Ndaywel is now Chief of General Staff of the Land Force. Maj-Gen Jean Roger Makombo has been appointed Chief of Military Intelligence.

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Brig-Gen Mulume Jean Bertemance will now handle operations as Deputy Chief, and Brig-Gen Mbuyi Tshivuadi takes over administration duties. Lt-Gen Jacques Nduru remains Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, and Gen Kabamba wa Kasanda François has been made Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics and Administration.

These changes come as M23/AFC rebels continue gaining ground in North Kivu. On Monday and Tuesday, rebels moved closer to Butembo, a key city in the region. The government admitted to the losses but said it was a planned retreat for strategic reasons.