In the middle of a difficult campaign meeting in Lodja, Moïse Katumbi recently made surprising statements, promising to “remove the position” of First Lady once elected. This proposal raises several problems, including the fact that the Democratic Republic of Congo does not actually have an official position of First Lady. Beyond this, it is important to recognize the essential role that first ladies have played in the country since its independence.
The first ladies have always been a moral presence and support for Congolese presidents, contributing to progress in areas such as social assistance, the fight against violence and incurable diseases, aid for the education of the most poor, etc. They have been the fuel and glue that has held the nation together while politicians have fought each other.
It is important to recognize their usefulness and the achievements they have made. Initiatives such as the Maman Mobutu Women’s Center, the Ducklings schools, the works of the Maman Olive Lembe Foundation, the law on sexual violence passed this year and Maman Denise Nyakeru’s Excellentia Scholarship are a few examples among many others.
Political differences may exist, but questioning the existence and role of first ladies is a pointless and childish debate. It is important to recognize the vital contribution of these women to the development of the country and to promote their role.
Beyond this particular proposal, it is crucial to question the capacity of Moïse Katumbi to lead the country. An electoral campaign devoid of principles and programs, far-fetched promises and a lack of intellectual depth raise serious doubts about his skills to occupy the highest office in the state. As a potential president, it is crucial to have a clear vision, unifying ideas, and in-depth thinking about the issues facing the country.
Ultimately, this populist outing by Moïse Katumbi reveals his fear of confronting questions about the origins of his wife. Rather than engaging in a useless debate, it would be more constructive for him to divorce and choose a wife truly from the Congo, instead of calling into question the history and contribution of women to the development of the country.
In conclusion, it is important to emphasize that a president who despises the role of the great ladies of the nation only devalues the female gender and compromises progress towards a more egalitarian society. Congolese women deserve to be respected and recognized for their contributions to society, and this macho thinking only reinforces the importance of gender equality in political leadership.