Kinshasa press review of Friday September 8, 2023
Today, we are looking at the articles published in the Kinshasa press which pay tribute to the late Marshal Mobutu Sese Seko, who died 26 years ago. This commemoration marks a moment of reflection for the Congolese people and recalls the importance of remembering significant figures in the history of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The daily La Tempête des tropiques recalls that on September 7, 1997, at the age of 67, Marshal Mobutu Sese Seko died in Morocco from prostate cancer. Since then, his remains have never been repatriated to the DRC. The newspaper highlights the importance of this date for the country and points out that Mobutu was the second President in the history of the DRC, having ruled the country for 32 years. Despite the controversies surrounding his reign, The Tropic Storm highlights that Mobutu left his mark on the country’s history.
L’Avenir reports that President Félix Tshisekedi attended a mass in tribute to Marshal Mobutu. This Eucharistic celebration, organized at Notre Dame du Congo Cathedral, brought together many political and religious figures, as well as members of the family of the deceased. President Tshisekedi expressed his willingness to organize a national funeral for Mobutu and build a tomb worthy of his rank, just as he did for Patrice Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the DRC.
Forum des As underlines the importance of remembering the one who preceded President Tshisekedi in office. The newspaper recalls that Mobutu marked the history of the country and bequeathed the spirit of national unity. It also highlights the need to honor the country’s collective memory, despite divergent opinions on the Marshal’s reign. Forum des As underlines that Mobutu played an essential role in the unity of the former Zaire, for which he fought without compromise.
In addition, Reference Plus reports the suspension of the executive secretary of the CENI, TotoKani Mabiku. According to several sources, this suspension was decided for serious misconduct. This decision raises questions about the tense relations between Mabiku and Corneille Nangaa, president of the CENI.
In conclusion, this press review highlights the importance of remembering those who marked the country’s history, such as the late Marshal Mobutu. Despite the controversies surrounding his reign, he remains an essential figure in the collective memory of the Congolese people. Furthermore, tensions within the CENI highlight the challenges that the country must face in its quest for political stability.