Title: The disappearance of Ne Muanda Nsemi: a controversial legacy
Introduction :
On October 18, 2023, an emblematic figure in the political and religious history of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) bowed out. Ne Muanda Nsemi, the creator and leader of the Bundu dia Kongo political-religious movement, died at the age of 77 in Kinshasa. His life was marked by passionate activism in favor of the creation of an autonomous state encompassing the territories of the former kingdom of Kongo, which caused him numerous tensions with the central power.
An atypical journey:
Born Zacharie Badiengila in 1946 in Luozi, Ne Muanda Nsemi chose to call himself that, which means “Creative Spirit” in Kikongo, a language he strongly defended. In 1969, he founded the Bundu dia Kongo (BDK), an initially cultural and spiritual movement which became an official political party in 1986. At the head of the BDK, Ne Muanda Nsemi tirelessly campaigned in favor of the autonomy of central Kongo, advocating an identity-based separatism which has often caused tensions with the authorities in Kinshasa.
Tense relations with power:
Under the regime of Joseph Kabila, Ne Muanda Nsemi regularly called on his supporters to revolt against the security forces. These calls often led to violent clashes between BDK members and the authorities. In 2007, for example, more than a hundred people lost their lives during clashes in Matadi, Boma and Muanda. In 2008, the BDK movement was banned and Ne Muanda Nsemi himself was imprisoned several times, even escaping from prison with the help of his supporters in 2017.
A political turnaround:
In recent years, relations between Ne Muanda Nsemi and the authorities have experienced a certain warming. He received a visit from relatives of the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi, and finally showed his support for the Sacred Union. However, his legacy leaves behind a controversial mark. While some consider him a charismatic leader and defender of Kongolese identity, others see him as a political agitator causing divisions within the country.
Conclusion :
The death of Ne Muanda Nsemi marks the end of an era for the DRC. His activism in favor of the autonomy of central Kongo and his tumultuous relations with the authorities have given rise to strong tensions and deadly clashes. His legacy will leave a mixed impression, with some admiring him as a defender of Kongolese culture and others blaming him for his controversial actions. It is undeniable that his death marks the end of a chapter in Congolese history and raises questions about the political and religious future of the country.