The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has imposed a 90-day ban on Al Jazeera Media Network after the broadcaster aired an interview with March 23 Movement (M23) rebel leader Bertrand Bisimwa.
The interview, conducted by Bojana Coulibaly and aired in early January 2024, featured Bisimwa speaking from the bush in North Kivu province. During the segment, Bisimwa accused the Congolese government of violating the ceasefire and described the M23’s actions as an “existential war.” Last year, Al Jazeera also aired an interview with M23’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka.
The interview drew sharp criticism from the DRC government. Justice Minister Constant Mutamba issued a stern warning last week, stating that any reporting on the activities of the Rwandan army or its alleged M23 affiliates would face severe consequences, including the death penalty.
On Monday night, Bruno Mboliko Mbolison, President of the Higher Council for Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC), signed a statement suspending Al Jazeera’s broadcasts in the DRC for 90 days. The CSAC accused the network of failing to cross-check sources or present balanced perspectives, alleging that the interview sought to destabilize state institutions.
The suspension comes as the Congolese government urges increased vigilance from media professionals. Minister of Communication and Media Patrick Muyaya recently called on journalists to exercise responsibility in their coverage of conflicts, cautioning against unintentionally advancing the interests of armed groups or foreign powers.
Al Jazeera has not yet responded to the ban. The M23 rebellion, led by Bertrand Bisimwa and Emmanuel Sultan Makenga, reignited in March 2022. Tensions escalated in August 2024 when M23 allied with Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo, former chairman of the DRC’s electoral commission and leader of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC). The DRC government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, allegations that both Rwanda and the M23 deny. The insurgents claim their fight is against corruption, xenophobia, and discrimination within the Congolese leadership. Recent clashes in North Kivu have seen government forces (FARDC) claim victories in dislodging rebels, but M23 continues to refute these assertions.
