“The visit of President Félix Tshisekedi to Nkamba: a strong symbol of rapprochement between power and the Kimbanguist Church”
October 12, 2023 will remain a significant date for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Indeed, President Félix Tshisekedi chose to go to Nkamba, the holy place of the Kimbanguist Church, for a double ceremony full of emotion and meaning.
This visit of several hours is part of a desire for rapprochement between the power of Kinshasa and one of the most influential local churches. It testifies to the importance given by President Tshisekedi to the spiritual dimension of the Congolese nation.
The first part of the ceremony commemorates the death of Simon Kimbangu, which occurred on October 12, 1951 after thirty years of imprisonment. Simon Kimbangu is an emblematic figure in Congolese history and the founder of the Kimbanguist Church. His spiritual legacy and his fight for freedom and justice are still revered by many devotees.
The second part of the ceremony celebrates the birth of Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani, who is considered by Kimbaguists as an important spiritual figure. Spiritual leader and legal representative of the Kimbanguiste Church since 2001, Papa Simon Kimbangu Kiangani is a respected leader within the religious community.
The presence of President Tshisekedi in Nkamba during this symbolic day shows his commitment to religious diversity and his respect for the beliefs and spiritual practices of all Congolese. It is also an opportunity for him to strengthen ties between the State and religious institutions, in a spirit of dialogue and cooperation.
Many delegations are already on site in Nkamba, testifying to the importance of this event for the Kimbanguist community and for the Congolese nation as a whole. President Tshisekedi’s visit highlights the importance of religion in Congolese society and the importance of religious tolerance in building a united and prosperous country.
In conclusion, the visit of President Félix Tshisekedi to Nkamba on October 12, 2023 is a strong symbol of rapprochement between power and the Kimbanguist Church. It demonstrates the president’s commitment to religious diversity and his desire to strengthen ties between the state and religious institutions. This visit also represents an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Simon Kimbangu and recognize the importance of religion in Congolese society.