The president of the Kasai-Oriental Provincial Assembly, Athanase Kabongo Malebongo, faces a petition signed by a majority of provincial deputies. Revealed this Monday, July 10, 2023, this petition, signed by 16 of the 24 provincial deputies, accuses Kabongo Malebongo of several shortcomings. Among the grievances mentioned, we can mention the poor coordination of the activities of the Provincial Assembly, the absence of accountability, the violation of the rules of procedure, the incompetence in the presidency of the plenary sessions and the lack of consideration towards the provincial deputies.
In response to this petition, the majority of provincial deputies requesting the convening of an extraordinary session and the dismissal of Athanase Kabongo Malebongo. According to close sources, this reaction is motivated by the refusal of Kabongo Malebongo to convene this extraordinary session which could call into question the entire provincial executive.
The office of the President of the Provincial Assembly reacted shortly afterwards, pointing out certain shortcomings in the procedure. He considers that the declaration of withdrawal of confidence made by the petitioning MEPs cannot lead to his dismissal and invites them to respect the procedure in force.
This situation marks a new stage in the political life of the province of Kasaï-Oriental and raises questions about the future of the Provincial Assembly. The next few weeks will be decisive in determining whether the petition will lead to the dismissal of President Kabongo Malebongo or whether he will manage to save his post.
In conclusion, the petition against the President of the Provincial Assembly of Kasaï-Oriental, Athanase Kabongo Malebongo, highlights the political tensions within the province. The convening of an extraordinary session and the possible dismissal of Kabongo Malebongo would represent a major turning point in the local political landscape. The next developments deserve particular attention to understand the consequences of this situation on the political future of the region