The National Episcopal Conference of the Congo (CENCO) says it was equally shocked by rebel movement Congo River Alliance (AFC) leader Corneille Nangaa’s impromptu church appearance in Rutshuru of eastern DR Congo.
Nangaa, a former partner in fraud and now sworn enemy of the Félix Tshisekedi, leads the AFC rebel movement which also has in its wings the rampant M23 fighters who have overwhelming control of the eastern regions of DR Congo.
Sunday’s mass at Saint-Alois Parish in Rutshuru had in attendance the AFC leader, Corneille Nangaa, who openly worshipped along with other people.
Nangaa’s presence at the parish aroused reaction from the public with some accusing the Catholic church in Congo of harbouring an enemy of the state.
However, CENCO released a press statement signed Secretary General Mgr Donatien Nshole, who clarified the position of the Catholic Church and denied any involvement with the Nangaa’s surprise appearance.
“Far from being the expression of support of the Catholic Church for the rebellion, like certain bad people faith believe, it is rather an incident that occurred to the great surprise of the officiating priest, in a context that we can all imagine” the statement reads.
Nangaa’s surprise presence at church is evidence of the AFC/M23’s advancement and overwhelming power and control it has gained in the east.
The former President of the National Electoral Commission (CENI) has recently been seen in public places more often as he gains more power and influence in the region.
