The investigation into the death of Chérubin Okende, an opposition MP in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has taken an international turn with the involvement of the United Nations Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO). The UN, through its mission in the country, has expressed its willingness to participate in the investigation into what is considered by the opposition to be a political assassination.
The UN envoy to the DRC, Bintou Keita, announced this decision during a press conference in Kinshasa. MONUSCO appointed General Mody Berethe, head of its police, to coordinate the UN’s participation in the investigation. General Berethe specified that MONUSCO’s contribution would be mainly technical, taking advantage of the capabilities of the technical and scientific police. This assistance will be provided in collaboration with the Congolese authorities and in compliance with Congolese law and the criminal procedure in force.
Chérubin Okende was found dead, riddled with bullets, in Kinshasa on July 13. Former minister and close to the opponent Moïse Katumbi, his death sparked strong reactions from the opposition, who see it as a political act aimed at silencing dissident voices.
The involvement of MONUSCO in the investigation into the death of Chérubin Okende testifies to the importance given to the resolution of this case and the guarantee of justice for the acts committed. It also strengthens the role of the international community in the promotion and protection of human rights in the DRC.
This new UN intervention in the country recalls the need for international cooperation to shed light on political crimes and guarantee the impartiality of investigations. She also underlines the importance of strengthening the capacities of local institutions, in this case the Congolese police, in order to carry out thorough and transparent investigations.
The investigation into the death of Chérubin Okende is a test for Congolese justice and for MONUSCO, which must demonstrate their commitment to truth, justice and the fight against impunity. Let us hope that this collaboration between the Congolese authorities and the UN will shed light on this assassination and provide answers to the questions surrounding this tragedy.