The above article refers to the recent dismissal of Mr. Hervé Mbelu, outgoing AG of the National Intelligence Agency, and Mr. Jean-Claude Bukassa, acting special adviser to the Head of State in matters of security. These appointments have raised questions about the meaning of their choice and the future of intelligence services in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The new bosses appointed, Esambo and Lusadisu, are not sociologically close to the President and do not belong to the inner circle of power. Their appointment therefore raises questions about the desire to create the conditions for the re-election of the President without contest or to turn the dark page of these sensitive institutions.
For these objectives to materialize, it is necessary to put in place a profound reform of the intelligence services, which are no longer limited to the abuses specific to totalitarianism, but which promote the promotion of democratic debate and the search for solutions for a better preparation strategic security decisions.
It is therefore essential to redefine the role and missions of these services, based on a new law which guarantees transparency and excellence in recruitment. In addition, it is essential to allocate more resources to the General Inspectorate of Finance to strengthen the efficiency of the intelligence services.
The new leaders, despite their lack of expertise and experience, have the opportunity to mark the history of the Congolese intelligence services and to give new impetus to these institutions. Their success in this mission will be decisive for the political action of the President and his desire to create positive change in the DRC.
In conclusion, the recent appointments at the head of the intelligence services in the DRC raise expectations for an in-depth reform of these institutions. It is imperative that the new leaders show vision, determination and political will to redefine the role of the intelligence services in a democratic context and guarantee the security of the State and its citizens