Title: The spoliation of a concession of the Mobutu estate: a case that reveals corruption in the DRC
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is often faced with cases of corruption and theft of property. Recently, an accusation was brought against General Sylvano Kasongo, police commissioner for the city of Kinshasa, who is allegedly involved in the spoliation of a concession belonging to the estate of former president Mobutu Sese Seko. This case highlights the corrupt practices that persist in the country. In this article, we will examine the details of this accusation and its implications for the DRC.
The case of the stolen concession:
The concession in question, registered under cadastral number 6359, is located in the commune of Kalamu, in Kinshasa. Originally owned by the Mobutu estate, it was acquired legally by Patient Musaka in 1986, according to a registration certificate. However, Congolese political and police figures, including General Sylvano Kasongo, as well as the Minister of Social Affairs, Modeste Mutinga, are said to have participated in the spoliation of this concession for the benefit of a Lebanese citizen.
The actions of the lawyer advising the Mobutu family:
The Mobutu family’s lawyer publicly denounced this spoliation and presented evidence attesting to the legitimacy of the ownership of the concession by Patient Musaka. He recalled that when the AFDL joined in 1997, many assets of former President Mobutu had been confiscated and classified as ill-gotten gains. However, in 2006, after the inter-Congolese dialogue of Sun-city, the president of the DRC had repealed the decrees of requisition of the property of the Mobutu family, which legitimized the return of the concession in the heritage of the heirs of Mobutu.
The involvement of General Sylvano Kasongo and Minister Modeste Mutinga:
According to the statements of the counsel, General Sylvano Kasongo and Minister Modeste Mutinga would have supported the Lebanese citizen in the spoliation of the concession. Illegal constructions have reportedly been undertaken on the private property of the Mama Mobutu Foundation, which has become the property of Patient Musaka. Reports have revealed that the documents presented by the Lebanese were false, and yet some authorities have tried to protect this spoliation.
The consequences for the DRC:
This case highlights the persistent problem of corruption in the DRC. The spoliation of public and private property harms the country’s economy and tarnishes its reputation on the international scene. Accusations against politicians and police highlight the need for a tougher fight against corruption and reform of the judiciary to guarantee the rule of law.
Conclusion :
The spoliation of a concession from the Mobutu estate highlights the corruption that is rampant in the DRC. The implications of this case are manifold, ranging from the loss of valuable assets for Mobutu’s heirs to the negative impact on the country’s economy. It is essential that measures are taken to fight against corruption and preserve the integrity of the institutions of the DRC