AFC/M23 Names Parallel Justice And Rights Officials

Goma, August 7, 2026 - The AFC/M23 rebellion announced new appointments to its justice and human rights structures on August 6, reinforcing its efforts to build parallel governance in areas under its control.

Me Jean-Philippe Chubaka Mashamba was named head of the department, with Me Jean-Paul Shaka assigned to judicial reforms and Me Emmanuel Tibasima Mugisa assigned to human rights.

The appointments follow the work of the Justice Revival Commission, which reported in November 2025 that 378 magistrates had been integrated in areas held by the AFC/M23. Kinshasa has rejected the legality of such steps and previously declared judicial acts by the rebel administration void.

In September 2025, Kamuleta, president of the Supreme Council of Magistracy and the Constitutional Court, said only the national council has authority to recruit and manage magistrates nationwide. Justice Minister Guillaume Ngefa also announced plans for an ordinance to nullify judicial decisions made by the AFC/M23.

The creation of justice and rights posts deepens the institutional challenge posed by the rebellion and may further complicate relations between Kinshasa and the armed movement in eastern Congo.