The request for the repatriation of 150 million US dollars paid by Glencore to the Swiss justice system for acts of corruption in the DRC, formulated by the coalition “Congo is not for sale” (CNPAV), has sparked an unprecedented citizen mobilization. During a sit-in in front of the Swiss embassy in Kinshasa, members of civil society expressed their frustration and their desire to see this money reinvested in local development projects. This case raises many questions about the transparency and responsibility of the actors involved.
Lewis Yola, a prominent member of CNPAV, stresses the importance of a thoughtful repatriation of these funds, so that they truly benefit the Congolese populations affected by Glencore’s corrupt practices. He warns against the recovery of these sums by government bodies that are not inclined to ethical and transparent management. For him, the money in question must be invested fairly and responsibly, to compensate for the harm suffered by the Congolese population.
The reaction of Chasper Sarott, Swiss ambassador in Kinshasa, shows some understanding of the frustration of the Congolese people with this situation. However, he insists on the need for collaboration between the Congolese and Swiss authorities to ensure a legal repatriation that complies with international commitments. He also calls for accountability for the use of the $180 million received by the Congolese government in exchange for dropping the charges against Glencore.
The Glencore scandal reveals the complex workings of international corruption and highlights the flaws in the judicial and political systems in both Switzerland and the DRC. The revelations about the Anglo-Swiss mining company’s dubious practices in the DRC highlight the urgent need for stricter regulation and increased monitoring of the activities of multinationals in developing countries.
The mobilization of Congolese civil society, through the CNPAV, demonstrates the determination of citizens to fight against impunity and to demand accountability from economic and political actors involved in corruption cases. This case should encourage the Congolese and Swiss authorities to strengthen their cooperation in the fight against corruption and to ensure that funds from illicit practices are actually used for the sustainable and equitable development of Congo.
In short, the Glencore case illustrates the need for transparent and responsible governance, both at the national and international levels, to prevent the proliferation of corrupt practices and promote inclusive and sustainable development of nations.