The outcome of the burial of Ne Muanda Nsemi, charismatic leader of the political-religious movement “Bundu dia Kongo”, still seems to be pending. Nearly five months have passed since his death, and his remains still remain in the fiftieth anniversary morgue in Kinshasa. Dissensions persist, hampering any plans to organize funerals.
A recent statement from the spokesperson for Ne Muanda Nsemi’s widow highlights the families’ distrust of the funeral organizing committee and calls into question the date announced for the burial, set for March 2. Relatives of the deceased also demand transparency in the use of funds intended for the construction of a mausoleum, calling on President Tshisekedi to set up an audit commission.
The need to clarify the use of funds and to review the organization of the funeral seems essential to ease tensions within Ne Muanda Nsemi’s family. In this period of mourning, the search for consensus appears to be an imperative to honor the memory of the deceased leader.
Respect for the wishes of the deceased and the transparent management of allocated funds constitute major challenges for the success of this final tribute. Hopefully the families will find common ground to allow Ne Muanda Nsemi to rest in peace in a place and time frame that reflects his legacy.