### The fight against corruption in the DRC: a solitary fight or a collective initiative?
**Introduction**
In an African political landscape largely darkened by corruption and impunity scandals, the honor planned for Jean-Baptiste Kasekwa, honorary national deputy, embodies a glimmer of hope. The latter, awarded on January 24 for his commitment against corruption, symbolizes a titanic challenge to the culture of corruption in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, the question arises: is Kasekwa an exception or can we envisage a collective mobilization against corruption in the DRC?
**A deserved but isolated victory?**
Jean-Baptiste Kasekwa became an example by his blatant refusal to give in to the sirens of corruption during his time in the National Assembly. His refusal to accept a bribe of $10,000 to influence a vote earned the minister well-deserved recognition. However, his bravery also raises questions about the lack of coordinated strategies to counter corruption at the national level. Is an individual approach enough in the face of such an entrenched system?
The Kanyaka Prize, which celebrates the efforts of those who oppose corruption, is a commendable initiative. However, it raises questions about the ability to mobilize a critical mass of the population in this fight. The DRC has a social fabric marked by deep distrust and divisions, making it difficult for a unified movement against corruption to emerge.
**Data and statistics: a damning picture**
It is important to contextualize the success of individuals such as Kasekwa with quantitative data. According to Transparency International, the DRC ranks among the least transparent countries, regularly appearing at the bottom of the Corruption Perceptions Index. In 2021, the country scored just 18 out of 100, underscoring the scale of the problem.
In addition, a study by the Institute for Security Studies estimated that corruption costs the DRC more than $12 billion each year, money that could otherwise be spent on infrastructure development, education, or health. The misappropriation of national resources perpetuates poverty and marginalization for many Congolese, increasing skepticism toward those who are responsible for governing.
**International Comparison: The Case of the DRC’s Neighbors**
When comparing with other African nations, it becomes clear that the DRC is not alone in this fight. Countries like Rwanda and Botswana, despite their challenges, stand out for their considerable efforts to combat corruption.. Rwanda, for example, has established robust institutions to monitor and sanction acts of corruption while Botswana scores significantly higher on the Corruption Perceptions Index.
A comparison with these countries demonstrates that transparency and good governance are not utopian dreams, but realities that can be achieved through collective awareness, targeted education and political commitment.
**The role of institutions and civil society**
While Kasekwa is a lone hero, there is an organizational deficit that hampers progress in the fight against corruption. Institutions that are supposed to protect national integrity, such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Ministry of Justice, often suffer from what is commonly called a lack of political will.
Civil society activism, exemplified by groups such as CNPAV, is crucial but must be accompanied by increasing pressure on institutions. This requires an agile approach that involves the population in the fight, raises awareness of the challenges of corruption, and mobilizes them to demand accountability from their leaders.
**Conclusion: The Call to Collective Action**
Jean-Baptiste Kasekwa is a symbol of the fight against corruption, but his model must be extended beyond the individual to become a collective movement. Corruption will not disappear simply thanks to a few courageous voices; it will require a concerted effort involving civil society, meaningful institutional reforms, and popular engagement. If the DRC aspires to a better future, prosperity, and clearer skies in terms of integrity, it is imperative to join forces, with every voice counting to chase away the darkness. The Kanyaka Prize is not only an award, but a call to every Congolese to stand up against corruption, in all its forms and at all levels.