The ninth Francophonie Games to be held in Kinshasa from July 28 to August 6 are fast approaching, but the city is plunged into an atmosphere of tension and fear. The recent assassination of Chérubin Okende, national deputy and former transport minister, has caused panic among the population and raised concerns about the security of the city.
In the aftermath of this tragic event, the Minister of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya, wanted to reassure the population during an emergency security meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sama Lukonde. According to Muyaya, the security services are on high alert and have increased their vigilance to ensure Kinshasa’s security.
Yet, despite these assurances, mistrust persists among the population. Kidnappings and organ trafficking in public transport feed this fear, especially since the government has not officially recognized these practices after its investigations. The manner in which Chérubin Okende was found dead also raises questions as to the circumstances of his death.
The political party Together for the Republic, to which Chérubin Okende belonged, underlines the consternation and describes this assassination as a state crime. The Congolese government has announced the establishment of a multidisciplinary investigation, also involving foreign services, in order to shed light on this affair.
However, these tragic events and the rise of political tensions raise doubts about the holding of the Francophonie games in Kinshasa. Several French-speaking states and governments have already expressed reservations and taken measures. Quebec withdrew, New Brunswick reduced its delegation and the Wallonia-Brussels Federation decided not to send its athletes for health and safety reasons.
The current situation highlights the challenges facing the DRC in terms of security and political stability. Assassinations and human rights violations are major obstacles to building trust and democratic consolidation.
It is therefore essential that the Congolese government take concrete measures to ensure the security of the population and the political stability of the country. Thorough and transparent investigations into killings and human rights violations must be carried out, and those responsible must be brought to justice.
The holding of the Games of the Francophonie is a crucial issue for the DRC, both internationally and internally. They represent a showcase for the country and can contribute to strengthening its image and its development. It is therefore essential to guarantee the safety of participants and spectators, as well as the credibility of the event..
In conclusion, the current situation in Kinshasa is worrying, with the assassination of Chérubin Okende and growing political tensions. It is imperative that the authorities take rapid and effective measures to restore security and stability in the city, so that the Francophonie games can take place in optimal conditions.