The assassination of deputy Chérubin Okende Senga in Kinshasa: a political crime that threatens Congolese democracy
In the early hours of this Thursday, July 13, sad news shook the Democratic Republic of Congo: the national deputy Chérubin Okende Senga was found murdered in Kinshasa. Former Minister of Transport and spokesperson for Moïse Katumbi’s party, Okende was a fierce opponent of the regime in place. His death therefore not only causes the loss of a politician, but also constitutes a real act of political violence which jeopardizes Congolese democracy.
The circumstances of the assassination are still unclear, but several concordant sources report that the deputy was found dead in his jeep, riddled with bullets. The first reports report an act committed by armed bandits, but it is impossible not to wonder about the real motivations behind this crime. Chérubin Okende was an influential and committed opponent, which leaves room for much speculation about a possible political plot to eliminate him.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time that the DRC has been the scene of political assassinations. In a country marked by instability and armed conflict, dissenting voices are often the target of these violent acts. But this time, the assassination of Chérubin Okende is of particular importance. As a national deputy and spokesman for an opposition party, he was a symbol of democracy and the fight for free and transparent elections. His death highlights the dangers facing political opponents in the DRC and highlights the urgent need to protect them.
Beyond this shocking crime, the assassination of Chérubin Okende also raises questions about the state of Congolese democracy. Elections are often marred by irregularities and fraud, which undermines citizens’ confidence in the political system. In this context, political violence only aggravates the situation and jeopardizes the democratic future of the country.
It is essential that the Congolese authorities shed full light on this assassination and bring those responsible to justice. This will not only bring justice to Chérubin Okende and his family, but also send a strong message that political violence will not be tolerated.
In conclusion, the assassination of Chérubin Okende Senga is a tragic act which jeopardizes Congolese democracy. It is time to put an end to this political violence and work together to guarantee free and transparent elections, where the voice of every citizen counts