Title: Deputy Daniel Safu risks the invalidation of his mandate following his tribal remarks
National deputy Daniel Safu, a member of the political family of Moïse Katumbi, could lose his mandate in the National Assembly following remarks inciting tribal hatred. His testimony before a special commission lasted more than three hours on Monday, with a public hearing scheduled for Tuesday to rule on his fate.
Safu’s remarks were made during an interview on the CML13 channel on May 20, after an opposition march. The deputy is accused of having made remarks promoting tribal hatred, which is a crime under Congolese law.
If he is found guilty, Daniel Safu risks the invalidation of his mandate in the National Assembly, in addition to the legal proceedings incurred. He declined to comment to reporters after his hearing.
Safu’s case has also sparked political reactions, particularly from the opposition, which has denounced a political “witch hunt” a few months before the elections. This kind of talk has raised concerns about the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the transition to a peaceful democracy.
Public hearings such as this are meant to enhance transparency and accountability in Congolese politics. The National Assembly’s reaction to Daniel Safu will show whether this process is fully working or not.