**The National Assembly bus affair: Truth or media manipulation?**
For several days, an affair has shaken the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Allegations of embezzlement and illicit enrichment have been made against the office of the Assembly, headed by Christophe Mboso N’kodia Pwanga. These accusations, relayed by the NGO CREFDL, report the use of 90.2 million dollars for the purchase of 12 30-seat buses from the COASTER brand, supposedly intended for the transport of administrative staff.
However, the Assembly office, through its communications unit, vigorously denied these allegations. According to this official source, there would in fact be no purchase of 14 minibuses for the directors, and this affair would only be an attempt to discredit the image of Christophe Mboso.
In a political context where corruption and embezzlement are commonplace, it is legitimate to ask questions about the veracity of such accusations. Especially since Christophe Mboso is presented as a man of integrity and patriotism, far from the questionable practices which often taint the image of politicians.
However, the report by the NGO CREFDL on the management of public finances in the National Assembly and the Senate highlights alarming figures. Between 2021 and 2023, the two houses of Parliament would have spent 1.1 billion US dollars, a colossal sum of which a large part would have been used by the National Assembly. These revelations raise legitimate questions about the management of public funds within the country’s political institutions.
So, who to believe in this matter of the National Assembly buses? Between official denials and accusatory reports, the truth seems very difficult to discern. One thing is certain, the fight against corruption and transparency in the management of public funds are major challenges for Congolese democracy. Let us hope that light is shed on this matter and that justice can take its course, whatever the final verdict.