Pardoned in 2021, twenty years after being convicted for the assassination of Laurent-Désiré Kabila, Eddy Kapend was elevated to the rank of general and appointed head of the 22nd military region in Greater Katanga. This decision provokes various reactions within the Congolese population.
On the one hand, some welcome the return of Eddy Kapend to the army and consider that he can bring his experience to strengthen the authority of the State in a context of growing security threats. According to Florence Lebwaz, socio-political actress and candidate for national deputy, the country needs Kapend’s contribution to face the challenges of secession and the fragmentation of Katanga.
On the other hand, voices are being raised to express their concerns about this appointment. Jeanne Grace Mabiala, candidate for provincial deputy, believes that Kapend could have returned to the army while retaining his rank of lieutenant-colonel. She points out that, after so many years spent in prison, he might not master certain workings and risk leading his brigade into a dead end.
Melanie Yombo, candidate for provincial deputy, is also concerned about the repercussions of the appointment of Eddy Kapend. She fears a cold war between Kapend and his detractors, notably Joseph Kabila and the generals who remained loyal to him. According to her, it would have been preferable to establish unity among the Congolese to face external aggression before reinstating Kapend.
It is important to remember that Eddy Kapend was convicted in 2001 by a military court for his alleged involvement in the assassination of former President Laurent Kabila. His release in 2021 as part of the presidential pardon sparked debate and controversy in the country.
This appointment of Kapend to a senior position in the Congolese army raises questions and divergent opinions. It remains to be observed how he will assume his new functions in the 22nd military region of Greater Katanga and what impact this decision will have on the security and political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo.