FARDC Accuses Close Associates of President Tshisekedi of Leading Mobondo Armed Group

Kinshasa / Kwilu, DRC - December 28, 2025 The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have accused individuals close to President Félix Tshisekedi of leading the Mobondo armed group, which has destabilized western parts of the country for nearly three years. The allegations were made by Captain Anthony Mwalushay, spokesman for military operations in provinces including Kwilu, during a press briefing on December 28, 2025, following weekend clashes in which five FARDC soldiers were killed. According to Capt. Mwalushay, some individuals who publicly claim allegiance to President Tshisekedi are allegedly involved in commanding Mobondo fighters, while others are said to be collaborating with armed groups operating in eastern DRC. “We have information about some who are working with armed groups in the east,” Mwalushay said. “For Mobondo, the problem is that many of those who support it are often seen behind the President of the Republic. During the day they appear harmless, but at night they lead Mobondo.” The FARDC spokesperson stated that during the recent fighting, 15 Mobondo fighters were killed, and several others were arrested. He added that some detainees allegedly identified political and institutional figures as being linked to the group. “Our institutions are investigating before releasing names,” Mwalushay said. “If Kinshasa supports those who are secretly behind Mobondo for political reasons, we soldiers will continue to do our job with weapons.” The Mobondo movement, largely composed of members of the Yaka ethnic group, emerged in June 2022, initially targeting the FARDC and the Teke community, primarily over land disputes. Since then, Mobondo attacks have severely affected security in rural areas surrounding Kinshasa and in neighboring provinces, including Mai-Ndombe, Kwilu, Kongo Central, and Kwango, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement. In recent months, Mobondo fighters have reportedly attempted to expand their operations into peri-urban areas of Kinshasa, including Maluku and Kingakati. The government, however, says it has taken strong preventive measures to prevent further deterioration of security in the national capital.