The corruption scandal within FONER in the Democratic Republic of Congo has recently resurfaced, highlighting the massive misappropriation of funds intended for road maintenance in Ituri province. According to revelations, a colossal sum of 81 million US dollars would have escaped the fund of this public service, the DGDA, responsible for their collection.
This shortfall, which extends over a period of several years, raises crucial questions about the transparency and integrity of the public revenue management system. The involvement of various actors in this diversion, mainly linked to petroleum products, highlights the scale of the embezzlement and the need to take urgent measures to restore citizens’ confidence in state institutions.
The shocking revelation that more than US$12 million has been disappearing every month since the start of 2024 highlights the urgency of immediate action to stop this financial hemorrhage. The military governor of Ituri, Lieutenant General Luboya N’kashama Johnny, has clearly expressed his determination to bring to justice all those involved in this scandal and to put an end to this outrageous practice.
This affair not only reveals dysfunctions within FONER, but also raises broader questions about governance and accountability in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The fight against corruption and embezzlement requires concerted action at all levels of society, strict measures to punish offenders and structural reforms to strengthen the transparency and integrity of public institutions.
It is imperative that Congolese authorities take immediate action to put an end to this misappropriation of funds and ensure that public revenues are used efficiently and transparently for the well-being of the population. The fight against corruption is a major challenge for the integrity of the financial system and the economic development of the country, and it requires determined and resolute action on the part of the competent authorities.