Title: Justin Bitakwira auditioned at the General Prosecutor’s Office near the Court of Cassation: return to a tribal controversy
Introduction :
The former Congolese Minister of Rural Development, Justin Bitakwira, found himself at the center of a controversy following his hearing at the General Prosecutor’s Office near the Court of Cassation last Thursday. Accused of making a speech of a tribal nature against the Tutsi community, Bitakwira was questioned about remarks deemed stigmatizing made during a television program. This affair has aroused strong reactions, in particular from the European Union, expressing its indignation at such remarks. A look back at this controversy and the reactions to it.
Controversial remarks:
During his hearing, Justin Bitakwira claimed to have only commented on the book “Holocaust in Congo” by Charles Onana, in which tragic events involving the Tutsi community are discussed. He also said that his objective was to inform national and international opinion on the actions of Kagame’s Rwanda in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, these statements were deemed stigmatizing and hateful towards Congolese Tutsis.
National and international reactions:
Ambassador Jean-Marc Châtaigner, on behalf of the European Union, called Bitakwira’s remarks obscene and recalled that this was the second time he had displayed such an attitude. He stressed that this was behavior that deserved collective attention. For its part, the BASHI-BAHAVU CINYABUGUMA community strongly condemned Bitakwira’s remarks and asked him to issue a public apology within seven days, failing which it would take legal action.
Response from Bitakwira:
Faced with these reactions, Justin Bitakwira invoked a form of colonization and criticized the interference of the ambassador in the internal affairs of the country. He also pointed the finger at the European Union, which he considers to be an accomplice in the misfortunes that are hitting the DRC, according to information from Charles Onana’s book.
Conclusion :
The Bitakwira case highlights the ethnic tensions present in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The remarks made by the former Minister aroused strong reactions, both nationally and internationally. Bitakwira is now expected to issue a public apology within a specified timeframe, or face legal action. This controversy highlights the importance of vigilance and respect for the values of unity and non-discrimination for the construction of a peaceful and inclusive society