Title: Chérubin Okende, A Lost Voice: A look back at the assassination of a political leader in the DRC
Introduction :
In a sad event that shakes the Congolese political scene, Chérubin Okende, national deputy and former Minister of Transport, was found dead, victim of an assassination according to his relatives. This drama raises many questions and arouses great concern in a climate of growing tension between opponents and power in the DRC. In this article, we will come back to the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Chérubin Okende, his political commitment and the reactions that followed his death.
The portrait of a committed leader:
Chérubin Okende was an influential political figure in the DRC, known as the right arm of Moïse Katumbi. Former transport minister and spokesperson for Katumbi’s party, he stood out for his commitment to democracy and political change. His resignation from the Sama Lukonde government to support Katumbi underscored his loyalty to his beliefs and his devotion to the Congolese people.
A suspicious disappearance:
On July 12, 2023, Chérubin Okende went to the Constitutional Court to respond to a summons. However, he never reappeared afterwards, sowing concern among his relatives and political colleagues. Eventually, his lifeless body was discovered abandoned on a truck in Kinshasa on the morning of July 13. Initial reports indicate that he was shot in his vehicle, suggesting a political assassination.
Reactions of shock and worry:
The assassination of Chérubin Okende sent shockwaves through Congolese opponents and activists. Many voices were raised to denounce this act of violence and express their concern for the safety of political leaders in the DRC. Tensions are heightened by preparations for the general elections scheduled for December 2023, where the political stakes are increasingly high.
The quest for justice:
Faced with the assassination of Chérubin Okende, a demand for justice is heard to shed light on this heinous act. The relatives of the victim and supporters of democracy are calling for a thorough and impartial investigation in order to identify those responsible for this assassination and bring them to justice. This quest for justice is essential to preserve the integrity of the democratic process and guarantee the protection of committed political leaders.
Conclusion :
The assassination of Chérubin Okende is a tragic loss for the Congolese political scene and heightens concerns about the safety of political leaders in a context of growing tensions. The quest for justice and the will to preserve the integrity of the democratic process in the DRC are of paramount importance to ensure a better future for the country and its people.. It is essential that this heinous act does not go unpunished and that all parties involved commit to shed light on this tragedy in order to avoid other similar tragedies in the future