In a continuing legal probe, Minister of State, François Rubota, Minister of Finance, Nicolas Kazadi, and former Minister of Rural Development, Guy Mikulu Pombo, have been restricted from leaving Kinshasa and the national territory. This measure is aimed at preventing any potential escape by the three individuals who are facing allegations of misappropriation of public funds. The Attorney General at the Court of Cassation has instructed the Director General of the Directorate General of Migration to impose travel restrictions on the accused.
During a press briefing, Nicolas Kazadi addressed the news concerning drilling and streetlight projects. He clarified that these initiatives were initiated under the previous administration and dismissed accusations of overcharging. Payments to the supplier were reportedly approved during his predecessor’s tenure, with a total contract value of 80 million USD. As of now, three payments amounting to 71 million have been disbursed, with the remaining balance contingent upon the completion of deliverables.
Kazadi highlighted the positive advancements in the projects, especially in Kisangani, and declared his stance against providing additional funds until the previous services are satisfactorily fulfilled. This position was officially adopted at a council of ministers meeting. Dismissing allegations of familial connections with the CEO of Stever Construct, the company responsible for the project, Kazadi firmly denied these rumors and emphasized the absence of any personal or family ties with the company’s head.
Regarding the street lamps project, Kazadi revealed that the financing fell under the jurisdiction of Kinshasa city hall, overseen by the city governor. He emphasized that any potential misallocation of funds should be addressed at the municipal level.
This case underscores significant concerns regarding the management of public funds and the integrity of government officials. Ensuring transparency and accountability in financial resource utilization is crucial for the welfare of the Congolese populace.