The assassination of Cherubin Okendi: an echo of Sarajevo?
History is sometimes marked by tragic events that change the course of things. In 1914, the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Habsburg in Sarajevo was the spark that ignited the First World War. Today, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the assassination of Cherubin Okendi seems to evoke the memory of this tragedy.
The image of a bloodied man lying in a convertible car is eerily reminiscent of that of the Archduke and his wife before they died. The similarities end there, of course, because the circumstances and motivations behind these killings are different. But it is difficult not to draw a parallel between these two landmark events in history, both of which changed the destinies of entire nations.
Like Gavrilo Princip, the young terrorist who assassinated the Archduke, those responsible for the assassination of Cherubin Okendi seem to have been quickly identified. But it is important to take a step back and wait for the results of the investigation before drawing any definitive conclusions. In a country where political tension has been palpable for months, it is easy to give in to the temptation of political appropriation and hasty accusation. It is important to remember that Cherubin Okendi was a respected politician, who did not go to extremes and was not at the center of political controversies.
The assassination of Cherubin Okendi is a sad reminder of the flaws in our society. In a country where political kidnappings and violence are rife, there is an urgent need to face these issues and resolve them. It is time to end the culture of impunity and ensure the safety of all citizens.
Beyond emotion and indignation, it is essential to focus on the process of reconciliation and justice. A thorough and independent investigation is needed to shed full light on this assassination and to bring the culprits to justice. Congo cannot afford to remain in obscurity and impunity, this will only aggravate divisions and violence.
The assassination of Cherubin Okendi must serve as a catalyst for a collective awakening. It is an opportunity to realize the urgency of uniting as a nation, of overcoming our political differences and of working together to build a better future. Peace and stability can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for human rights and the promotion of justice.
Sarajevo and the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Habsburg marked the start of a devastating war