The recent statement by the head of diplomacy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Christophe Lutundula, concerning the opening of a judicial investigation against the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, sparked strong reactions within Congolese society. The accusations against the Catholic prelate raise questions about freedom of expression and the relationship between church and state.
According to the Deputy Prime Minister, it is important to emphasize that the DRC and the Vatican have not signed any agreement granting judicial immunity to religious people. Thus, all Congolese citizens, including members of the clergy, are required to respect the laws of the country. Christophe Lutundula stressed that the remarks made by Cardinal Ambongo could be perceived as supporting acts of destabilization of the country, in particular by advocating political groups such as the Congo River Alliance.
However, the position of the Chancellery of the Archdiocese of Kinshasa, affirming that Cardinal Ambongo did not refuse to cooperate with the judicial authorities but that he was simply absent when receiving the invitation from the Attorney General, highlights shed light on the circumstances surrounding this delicate matter.
For its part, the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) called for serenity and insisted on the fact that the matter is being handled responsibly, in accordance with the laws of the country. ACKIN, for its part, denounced a maneuver which it describes as “dictatorial drift” aimed at muzzling freedom of expression and intimidating the Church in the exercise of its prophetic role.
Crucially, the debate around this case highlights the complex tensions between church and state in the DRC, as well as the need to protect freedom of expression and the role of religious institutions in society. This situation raises fundamental questions regarding respect for the fundamental rights of citizens and the preservation of the independence and responsibility of each actor in the country.
It therefore appears crucial to promote an open and constructive dialogue between all parties concerned, with the aim of guaranteeing respect for democratic principles and values essential for the stability and progress of the Democratic Republic of Congo.