Internal clashes between rival factions of the Wazalendo militias, which usually fight alongside Congolese government forces against M23 rebels, have resulted in the deaths of two fighters and left several others injured.
The confrontation occurred early Friday morning, May 16, in the Malicha/Simbi area, just a few kilometers from Baraka, the main urban center of Fizi Territory in South Kivu Province. The fighting reportedly involved Wazalendo factions from South and North Kivu.
Local sources indicate the shootout broke out among members of the Yakutumba faction, one of the groups operating under the Wazalendo coalition. Two fighters were confirmed dead, with many more injured in the skirmish.
This is not the first time the Wazalendo alliance has suffered internal rifts. Similar infighting occurred in recent months in both Fizi and Uvira territories. Two months ago, tensions between the Hamuri Yakutumba and Ebwira Mutetezi Trésor factions also ended in deadly violence.
In Uvira, internal rivalries have become a frequent occurrence, particularly between factions led by commanders Gashumba, Makanaki John, and René, often leading to repeated confrontations and undermining their collective fight against external threats like the M23.
