Shocking assassination of an honorary minister in the Democratic Republic of Congo: the opposition points the finger at President Tshisekedi
In a tense pre-electoral climate, marked by political tensions and attacks on freedom of expression, a tragic event recently shook the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): the assassination of Chérubin Okende, an honorary minister.
In a press release, the civil society organization Fight for Change (LUCHA) reacted strongly to this heinous act. She denounced the arbitrary arrests, illegal detentions and intimidation that target political opponents, civil society and even members of the Catholic clergy critical of the government. According to LUCHA, this climate of terror is encouraged and maintained by President Félix Tshisekedi himself.
The organization recalls in particular a speech by the Congolese president in which he congratulated a police official for having coordinated the repression of an opposition demonstration in Kinshasa. Moreover, in another event, Tshisekedi allegedly promised that people considered a threat to the country’s security would be attacked, without even respecting their constitutional rights.
These statements and actions of the Head of State raise questions about his responsibility in the assassination of Chérubin Okende. According to LUCHA, it is legitimate to wonder whether this violent act was intended to silence political opponents and civil society activists who question the ongoing electoral process and President Tshisekedi’s desire to cling to power.
Faced with this worrying situation, the civil society organization demands a rapid, independent and exhaustive investigation in order to determine the exact circumstances of this assassination and to identify the perpetrators and the sponsors so that they can be tried.
This tragic event highlights the political tensions and attacks on freedom of expression that exist in the DRC. It is important that the international community remain vigilant and mobilize to guarantee the protection of fundamental rights and respect for democracy in this country.
In conclusion, this assassination once again highlights the importance of promoting a political and social environment conducive to freedom of expression, citizen participation and democracy in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Truth and justice must prevail in order to prevent such heinous acts in the future and create a more stable and democratic future for all Congolese