WHY reported AFC/M23 church closures matter in eastern DRC

AFC/M23 authorities have closed churches linked to Congolese prophet Jules Mulindwa in areas under the group’s control, according to a report , after worshippers were urged to pray for “legally established institutions.”

The report says the affected denomination identified as the Pentecostal Church “Lumière du Monde Cité de Refuge” taught an interpretation of Romans 13 that encourages believers to respect authority and pray for institutions.

For members of the congregation quoted by 7sur7.cd, praying for peace and for the authorities is presented as a standard element of their faith, not a political act. But the same report suggests that Mulindwa’s public messages described by supporters as patriotic and focused on civic responsibility may have been viewed as provocative by the rebel administration in the zones it controls.

Beyond the religious dimension, the closures matter because churches in conflict-affected communities often function as informal support systems places for moral guidance, social help, and solidarity especially where state services are weakened. It is reported the church claims about 500,000 followers across the occupied territories, meaning any prolonged shutdown could ripple through community life.

As of the report’s publication on March 2, 2026, said AFC/M23 had not issued detailed information on how long the closures would last or the conditions for reopening, while worshippers called for respect for religious freedom.

Source: 7sur7.cd