Martyrs’ Day in Bunia: Army Calls for Popular Support Against Eastern Conflict

Bunia, Ituri, January 4, 2026 - On the occasion of National Independence Martyrs’ Day, observed annually on January 4 in honor of the independence heroes who fell in 1959, the 32nd Military Region of the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) in Bunia issued a call for popular support to help end the ongoing conflicts in North Kivu and Ituri. Military authorities emphasized that the current violence has claimed many lives, now recognized as martyrs, and urged citizens to contribute to the restoration of peace in the region. Colonel Emmanuel Libandi, coordinator of the Armed Reserve for Defense and president of the organizing committee, highlighted security improvements over the past six months, particularly in the Djugu territory. He attributed this progress to a combination of military operations and dialogue with local communities, despite continuing threats from Thomas Lubanga’s CRP militia and the widespread proliferation of illegal weapons. The FARDC reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing operations aimed at achieving lasting peace and called on all citizens to follow the example set by the martyrs in supporting peacebuilding efforts. The commemoration brought together religious leaders, state representatives, and civil society actors, with plans underway to extend similar events to other territories within Ituri province.