AFC/M23 Accuses Radio Okapi of Spreading False News
Rebel Spokesman Says UN Radio Is Not Fair
The spokesperson for the armed group AFC/M23, Laurence Kanyuka, has publicly criticized Radio Okapi, a UN-supported radio station in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He said the station is not giving their side a chance to respond to negative reports and is spreading biased information.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Kanyuka said Radio Okapi is breaking journalism ethics and ignoring their right to reply.
“We are deeply concerned with the way Radio Okapi reports about AFC/M23. Their news is full of bias, lacks professionalism, and violates our rights,” Kanyuka wrote.
What Radio Okapi Reported
Radio Okapi recently reported that there have been killings and insecurity in areas controlled by AFC/M23. According to a report they aired, at least 10 people were shot dead between July 3 and 25, 2025, in Goma City and Karisimbi commune.
The station cited a local organization called Goma Hebdo Plus, which said over 65 homes were robbed by armed men. The group added that 26 cases happened in Goma, while 39 took place in Karisimbi commune.
Radio Okapi also reported that AFC/M23 has been arresting young people and forcing heavy taxes on civilians. However, the rebel group says it was not given a chance to respond to these serious claims.
AFC/M23 Denies the Allegations
Laurence Kanyuka says the group strongly denies these accusations. He blames Radio Okapi for promoting “anti-M23 propaganda” and for never trying to verify the truth with them.
“Radio Okapi gives airtime to anyone who speaks badly about us, but it never checks the facts or contacts us for comment,” he added.
Kanyuka explained that AFC/M23 tried many times to contact the station’s leaders to request airtime, but their request was ignored.
He said the group is now planning to take steps to stop what they call “a targeted propaganda campaign” that violates basic rights and fair reporting.
AFC/M23 Claims to Support Free and Fair Journalism
Despite the criticism, AFC/M23 insists they support professional journalism. The spokesperson said that in areas under their control, including Goma and Bukavu, media houses are allowed to operate freely as long as they report fairly and give all sides a voice.
“We allow journalists to work, but they must report verified facts and include all voices,” said Kanyuka.
Conflict Continues in Eastern DRC
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has created serious humanitarian issues, with thousands of people displaced from their homes. The United Nations has been active in trying to support peace efforts through MONUSCO, which also sponsors Radio Okapi.
However, this public dispute between AFC/M23 and Radio Okapi shows how complex and tense the situation remains. Accusations of media bias and limited access to airtime continue to be part of the larger conflict narrative.
