His remarks came after AFC/M23 forces took control of Nzibira town in Walungu Territory, South Kivu, on Sunday, September 21, 2025.
Brig. Gen. Kapend, who also commands the army in Katanga, said the situation does not pose a major threat as long as Katanga remains untouched.
'All the pressure is in eastern DRC. If we fail to stop the enemy there, we will be the first to face its heavy weapons,' he said.
He added that the rebel coalition could expand further without endangering national stability.
'They may take over other areas, but as long as they do not take Katanga, the country will endure,' he stated.
Heavy fighting between AFC/M23 and the Congolese army coalition flared again late last week, with clashes reported in Cisaza, Cibanda, Muyange, Karhuliza and Kalongo in South Kivu, as well as in Masisi and Walikale in North Kivu.
IGIHE
