In the latest development in DRCongo, Four armed groups operating in Ituri have formed a coalition of armed groups in Ituri (COGAI). The coalition leader is Col. Banaloki a.k.a Cobra Matata.
In a press statement released on Thursday 24 May, the new coalition is calling on the Congolese government for an amnesty for all militias operating in Ituri and the recognition of this district as a province of the DRC.
Outside the Patriotic Resistance Force in Ituri (FRPI) of Cobra Matata, other armed groups that have signed the act of creation of this coalition are: The Popular Front for the sustainable development of the Ituri Eneko Kila. The Armed Force for the revolution of a Kabuli Integration of the Armed Forces of Ituri.
Most of the militia leaders are deserters from the Armed Forces of DRC (FARDC).
These militias are also calling for the creation of a military region in Ituri led by a native of this district and the immediate departure of Col. Fal Sikabwé, current head of operations in the area.
They accuse Col. Sikabwé of murdering Gen. Floribert Kisembo who had deserted from Congolese army, he died a year ago in Djugu after a hunt against him by loyalist forces.
Residents in the area have demanded local and national authorities to engage with such militia “to find a way out.”
However, FARDC in Ituri, say they do not believe in the existence of this coalition.
In February of this year, Cobra Matata had expressed willingness to join the army with his men saying, “it is time to make peace.”
Civil society in Ituri had invited the head of the Congolese State, Joseph Kabila to respond to its request by granting its militia and himself an amnesty.
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