What are the Kimbanguists worth in front of the faithful Catholics and Protestants?
Freedom of religion is a fundamental right in the Democratic Republic of Congo, guaranteed by the constitution. According to article 22 of the Congolese constitution, everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. The DRC is a secular state, which means that all religious communities are supposed to be equal and have the same rights and freedoms.
Nevertheless, it is interesting to note that within Congolese society, certain religious communities have a greater impact than others. This is particularly the case of the Catholic Church, which has had considerable influence on the political and social field of the country since colonial times. A recent study entitled “The Catholic Church in the DRC in the middle of the village or at the heart of the protest” highlights the influence of the Catholic Church in Congolese society.
But it would be simplistic to limit religious influence in the DRC to the Catholic Church. Kimbanguism, for example, is an important religious movement in the country. Founded in 1921 by the prophet Simon Kimbangu, Kimbanguism has many followers and has a significant influence in the Congolese religious sphere. Indeed, since 2023, April 6, the date of the movement’s founding, has even been declared a public holiday throughout the national territory.
The Congolese constitution guarantees the freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs, both in public and in private. However, this freedom must be exercised with respect for the law, public order, good morals and the rights of others.
It is essential to emphasize that the secularism of the Congolese state implies religious neutrality and the equality of all before the law, whether they are believers or not. Secularism also guarantees the right to freedom of expression of everyone’s beliefs and convictions.
When monitoring the news, it is important to remember that certain hate speech, tribalist speech or spreading false information can circulate within religious communities. It is therefore essential to exercise discretion and verify information before relaying it.
In conclusion, all religious communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo, whether Kimbanguists, faithful Catholics or Protestants, have the right to freedom of religion and must be respected in their beliefs. The secular State guarantees the equality of all before the law, without distinction of religion or belief. It is therefore essential to encourage mutual respect and interreligious dialogue to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence within Congolese society.