Tshisekedi Arrests a Loyal General Known for M23 War Claims
Maj Gen Tshibangu, a high-ranking military officer from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has been arrested in Kinshasa. He was detained on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Camp Kololo, a major military base in the capital.
Reports say he was among the trusted generals of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi. His arrest came as a surprise to many inside the army, especially since he was well-known for saying that he would be the one to end the M23 rebellion.
Top Military Officers Already in Jail
Maj Gen Tshibangu joins other senior officers already behind bars. They include Gen Christian Tshiwewe Songesa, the former Army Chief of Staff, and Lt. Franck Ntumba, who previously led military operations from the president’s office.
Others detained before him are Maj Gen Christian Ndaywel, once the head of military intelligence and later commander of ground forces, and Lt. Gen Pacifique Masunzu, who led the third military zone of FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo).
According to local sources, Tshibangu was interrogated by security agencies right after his arrest. His questioning caused fear among senior military officers, who now feel uncertain about their own safety.
Army Keeps Reason for Arrest Secret
The Congolese army has not given any official reason for the arrest. However, insiders suggest that Maj Gen Tshibangu might have been planning something unusual. Reports claim the general was closely guarded by special commando units known for their loyalty and toughness.
It is believed that the operation to arrest him in Kinshasa was carefully planned and executed without violence. Some local media outlets say he could have been suspected of involvement in secret plans against the government.
A History of Rebellion and Loyalty
Maj Gen Tshibangu has a long military background. Years ago, he was part of RCD/Goma, a rebel group before joining the national army. In 2011, he made headlines after accusing the government of Joseph Kabila of stealing votes from Étienne Tshisekedi, the father of the current president.
After those statements, Tshibangu fled the country. He was later arrested in Tanzania and sent back to Kinshasa, where he faced charges of desertion and forming an illegal rebel movement. He denied all accusations.
Later, when President Félix Tshisekedi came to power, Tshibangu was granted a presidential pardon. He was promoted quickly and made commander of the 21st Military Region (Kasaï Oriental).
Tension Inside Congo’s Army
The arrest of Maj Gen Tshibangu adds to a growing list of top army officials detained in recent months. Observers say it reflects deep internal struggles inside the DRC military.
President Tshisekedi’s administration has repeatedly said it will not tolerate any activity that threatens democracy or national stability. According to officials, some senior soldiers have been accused of supporting plans that could weaken the government.
This move comes as Congo’s army continues fighting M23 rebels in the eastern region, a conflict that has caused displacement and insecurity for thousands of civilians.
For more updates on regional security, you can read similar stories from trusted sources like BBC Africa and Al Jazeera News.
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