Ne Muanda Nsemi, an influential figure in political and religious history in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), died on October 18, 2023 at the age of 77 in Kinshasa. As the creator and leader of the Bundu dia Kongo politico-religious movement, he dedicated his life to promoting the creation of an autonomous state comprising the territories of the former Kingdom of Kongo. Its conflictual relationship with central power marked its trajectory.
Born as Zacharie Badiengila in Luozi in 1946, he adopted the name Ne Muanda Nsemi, which means “Creative Spirit” in Kikongo, a language he fervently defended. In 1969, he founded the Bundu dia Kongo (BDK), a movement with cultural and spiritual origins which transformed into a political party in 1986.
As leader of the BDK, Ne Muanda Nsemi fought for the autonomy of central Kongo. His speeches in favor of identity separatism have fueled tensions with the government in Kinshasa. Under the regime of Joseph Kabila, he repeatedly incited his supporters to revolt against the security forces. This situation led to deadly clashes in Matadi, Boma and Muanda, in western DRC, between January 31 and February 3, 2007.
Elected deputy in 2006, then re-elected in 2011, Ne Muanda Nsemi saw his movement banned in 2008. In 2017, he was even imprisoned for a few months, before escaping with the help of his supporters.
In recent years, relations between Ne Muanda Nsemi and the authorities have relaxed somewhat. He even received visits from several relatives of the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi, and ultimately supported the Sacred Union. However, his disappearance leaves a void in the Congolese political and religious landscape.
The death of Ne Muanda Nsemi provokes contrasting reactions among the Congolese population. Some welcome his determination to defend the autonomy and interests of central Kongo, while others highlight the tragic consequences of his calls for revolt. Regardless, his death marks the end of an era and raises questions about the political future of the DRC.
In conclusion, the death of Ne Muanda Nsemi, founder of the Bundu dia Kongo, puts an end to an important chapter in the political and religious history of the Democratic Republic of Congo. His commitment to the autonomy of central Kongo marked his career, but his controversial methods also sparked tensions and violence. As the country prepares for an uncertain political future, it remains to be seen what Ne Muanda Nsemi’s legacy will be and how his supporters and opponents will position themselves in the future.