The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has drawn a line for M23 rebels in Lubero territory, declaring that as long as its troops are present, M23 will not be able to advance into areas under their control. During a security meeting on Thursday, February 27, in Masereka, UPDF commanders reassured residents that their deployment would prevent further rebel incursions, easing fears fueled by massive misinformation that portrays M23 as having ill intentions.
According to local press, M23 rebels were last seen in Munyakondomya, about 15 km from Masereka, on the road to Kipese. The UPDF deployment, which began a few days ago, was officially justified as an operation to flush out ADF rebels in Ituri and surrounding areas. However, its presence in Lubero has added a new layer to the ongoing conflict. M23 has expressed unease over the deployment, viewing it as a direct challenge to its movements.
Additionally, the presence of UPDF could inadvertently open an escape route for FDLR and Wazalendo fighters, allowing them to regroup and complicate M23’s advances further. This shifting dynamic raises concerns that FARDC-aligned militias may exploit the situation to reinforce their positions.
Meanwhile, in Kipese, the M23-AFC rebels introduced Kambale Visha Ibrahim as the new delegate of the governor during a public gathering on Friday, February 28. This announcement comes a week after M23 forces took control of Kipese, a strategic rural commune with over 50,000 residents.
The recent security developments have also affected civilian life. In a press release on Friday, February 28, 2025, the military administrator of Lubero territory, Colonel Kiwewa Mileta Alain, called for the resumption of school activities in Masereka, Magheria, and Luotu, citing improved security. The head of the provincial education sub-division, Mr. Jackson Baghuma, urged parents to send their children back to school after a 10-day disruption caused by the crisis.
Kipese, located just 15 km from Lubero-Centre—the capital of Lubero territory—remains under the control of the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC). As the situation continues to unfold, residents remain watchful of the shifting security dynamics.