The electoral campaign in the electoral district of Kenge-Territoire promises to be tough and difficult for the candidates Peti-Peti Jean-Marie, Matadiwamba Kamba Mutu, Munday Mulopo and the others, as they face the presence of a newcomer to the race, the young Émile Yimbu.
In an election where public opinion wants to rejuvenate the political class in Kwango, the existing candidates seem to have little chance against Émile Yimbu, an influential journalist from Kenge who has decided to enter politics.
The candidates Matadiwamba and Peti-Peti, respectively national deputy and provincial governor, will certainly be required to present their results of mandate, which could be detrimental to them. Matadiwamba, who has held several ministerial posts and been a national deputy for decades, is criticized for having brought nothing to the population in terms of projects or responsibility. He is also accused of being involved in succession disputes in the Pelende-north chiefdom and of having obstructed the creation of a bar of lawyers in his province. For his part, Peti-Peti is strongly criticized for his inefficient management of the province, accused of embezzlement and lack of transparency in his governance. He is also accused of fostering tribalism in the region.
Faced with these contested candidates, Émile Yimbu represents an alternative for the population. As an investigative journalist, he made a name for himself criticizing governance in Kwango. In particular, he carried out an investigation into the killings in the Bukangalonzo sector, which led to his being imprisoned. However, his release was demanded by the population who nicknamed him “Mandela” in recognition of his fight. He is supported by many residents of sectors such as Dinga, Mosamba, Koloksoso and Pelende-Nord, where he has built a solid base.
Some believe that the candidacy of Émile Yimbu within the political grouping AACRD is an attempt to support other candidates, in particular Mboso N’kodia Pwanga, current president of the National Assembly of the DRC. However, Yimbu himself claims to be a candidate in his own right and not to be used as a pawn in power struggles.
It remains to be seen if Émile Yimbu will be able to forgive his competitors or if he will continue to campaign with firmness. Be that as it may, his presence in the electoral race brings new hope to the inhabitants of Kenge-Territoire, who aspire to a more dynamic and more committed political representation.