On March 25, 2024, in Lubumbashi, fervent supporters of Tout Puissant Mazembe Englebert expressed their dissatisfaction with the Minister of Finance, Nicolas Kazadi, for what they consider to be a “punishment” inflicted on their team in refusing subsidies from the Congolese state for three years. In an open letter, fans denounced this injustice and pointed out the discriminatory treatment reserved for their club compared to other teams benefiting from financial support.
The supporters’ spokesperson, Robert Bikunga, underlined the unacceptable nature of the minister’s decision, accusing the latter of favoring clubs affiliated with his tribe to the detriment of TP Mazembe, which has nevertheless honored the Democratic Republic of Congo during competitions. continental. Demanding greater fairness and determined to make their voices heard, fans called for peaceful protests on March 27, 29 and 30.
These popular gatherings, planned in different parts of the city of Lubumbashi, aim to demonstrate against supposed partiality and to demand fair treatment for TP Mazembe. Supporters thus intend to express their frustration towards a system that they perceive as tribalist and discriminatory.
It is important to note that all clubs representing the DRC in CAF competitions normally benefit from financial support from the government, which has not been the case for Mazembe since 2020. This situation has caused deep resentment among the club’s fans, who feel relegated to the background despite the sporting successes achieved by their team.
It is crucial to find a balance to ensure impartial and fair treatment for all clubs, without favoritism or discrimination. TP Mazembe supporters deserve to be heard and taken into account in decisions impacting the financial support provided to the country’s football teams.