** Kinshasa, May 17, 2025: a commemoration that challenges **
May 17 was now marked as a commemoration day dedicated to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), an initiative which was welcomed by the national authorities, in particular by the Deputy Prime Minister of National Defense, Guy Kabombo. This day, although symbolically important, raises questions about the way in which the history of a country is built from the sacrifices of its soldiers, and what patriotism really means in such a complex context.
** A tribute to the sacrificed **
During the ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister deposited a wreath at the Congolese soldier’s memorial, stressing the importance of paying tribute to those who lost their lives to defend the country’s territorial integrity. This is part of a tradition which aims not only to remember the veterans, but also to cement the idea that the defense of the fatherland is a fundamental value. However, what is the real meaning of this tribute, and what historical truth does it raise to the rank of collective memory?
Since the fall of Marshal Mobutu in 1997, the country has gone through tumultuous periods, marked by internal conflicts and foreign interventions. Associating this day with a celebration of the liberation can recall as much struggles for sovereignty as fights deserving to be reassessed in the light of contemporary issues. In this sense, tribute is both a celebration and an invitation to reflect on a past that continues to shape the present.
** Wazalendo and the defense of national sovereignty **
The Deputy Prime Minister also thanked the self-defense group “Wazalendo” for its commitment alongside the FARDC. This support raises an interesting point on the dynamics between the official armed forces and the self -defense groups. If we recognize the need for defense and national security, it is advisable to question the role of these groups within the framework of a rule of law respecting democratic standards.
Wazalendo’s commitment is part of a complex landscape where individual collection of forces is sometimes perceived as a symptom of the helplessness of official institutions. This can lead to tensions between the various security players and raises the question of the legitimacy of militant interventions in the face of the crush on the authority of the State.
** A memory to revisit **
This commemoration of the day of May 17 invites us to revisit our understanding of national history, by integrating the voices of all those who participated directly or indirectly in the construction of this reality. The celebration of a victory has deep implications which must be examined without a precipitation or excessive emotion. What does this mean for future generations? What lessons can we draw past struggles to sail to a more peaceful and more stable future?
The security challenges that the Democratic Republic of Congo is confronted require in -depth and inclusive reflections, implying not only the military, but all the segments of society. In this way, commemoration could serve not only as a recall of sacrifice, but also become a moment of dialogue on peace, reconciliation and the importance of building a solid future, based on solid bases of justice and solidarity.
**Conclusion**
While the DRC continues to cope with multidimensional crises, the day of May 17 could become a symbol of resilience, but also a need for transformation. A space of memory which not only honors the past, but also inspires a future built together, outside the struggles and solitary sacrifices. By cultivating an open and inclusive memory, it may be possible to forge a true national identity, based on mutual respect and collective commitment for a better future.