SUMMARY

The nonstate conflict between the Baraka group also known as Vurondo Mayi Mayi, Mayi Mayi Luwotu and RCD-K-ML supported by Uganda was fought in Butembo town in the Nord Kivu province of DR Congo (Zaire). On 12 January 2002 the Baraka group, Mayi Mayi Luwoto coalition attacked Butembo, which at the time was controlled by forces of RCD-K-ML and Ugandan armed forces (UPDF) the attack led to a fierce battle leaving over 25 dead. According to Mayi Mayi the aim was to overthrow RCD-K-ML leadership not to attack the UPDF.

The fighting over Butembo occurred just at the end of the Congolese war and Ugandan troops were supposed to have left the area according to the Lusaka agreement.

The non-state conflict between Baraka group, Mayi Mayi Luwotu and RCD-K-ML is first included in UCDP data in 2002. On 12 January 2002, a large-scale clash took place between the groups which resulted in 25 battle-related deaths.