The new Sports Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, François Kabulo Mwana Kabulo, has been on everyone’s lips since his appointment two months ago. A former sports journalist, he used to criticize the decisions taken by his predecessors before he was appointed himself.
With his taking office, the expectation was great on the part of Congolese athletes. But the first steps of François Kabulo Mwana Kabulo have drawn criticism. His promise to bring back coach Florent Ibenge was not followed by concrete signals.
His first trip to Egypt also raised questions. While the Congolese media announced the approval of the Martyrs stadium by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the name of the stadium was not mentioned in the official list of approved stadiums.
Thus, the credibility of the new minister is at stake. Congolese sportsmen hope for concrete actions from him to relaunch the championship, a sector that can unite the Congolese population in this period of socio-political division.
Moreover, some observers wonder if his appointment was made to defy the criticisms he previously leveled at sports ministers.
It is therefore crucial that François Kabulo Mwana Kabulo pay attention to his promises before announcing them and that he acts to promote Congolese sport. The expectations are high, the pressure is high, and the first steps of this new minister are closely scrutinized