Fatshimetrie, October 29, 2024 – The political climate in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is once again agitated by allegations of corruption involving the National Office for the Identification of the Population (ONIP). A recent statement has sparked a heated debate, with accusations of embezzlement of funds intended for the printing of biometric identity cards.
ONIP has strongly contested these allegations, rejecting claims of embezzlement and questioning the integrity of the organizations mentioned, such as the Observatory of Public Expenditure (ODEP) and the Congolese League for the Fight against Corruption (Licoco). ONIP Director General Richard Ilunga has vigorously denied any involvement in these accusations and stressed that he was on suspension during the period in question.
In a scathing statement, ONIP expressed its indignation at these unfounded allegations and stated that the implementation of the biometric identity card printing project took place under the supervision of the deputy director general, Stanislas Kenza. The suspended director general, Richard Ilunga, described these accusations as serious, unsupported by evidence and damaging to his reputation and that of ONIP.
Faced with these serious allegations, ONIP indicated that it reserved the right to take legal action against ODEP and Licoco for defamation and damage to its reputation. The organization also called on the two NGOs to publicly rectify their statements to re-establish the truth and protect the integrity of ONIP’s director general.
This controversy highlights the issues of transparency and integrity in the management of public funds in the DRC. It also highlights the importance of conducting thorough and impartial investigations to clarify allegations of corruption and preserve citizens’ trust in government institutions.
In conclusion, this case demonstrates the persistent challenges facing the DRC in the fight against corruption and underscores the need for continued commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.