The debate surrounding the beatification of King Baudouin I of Belgium continues to generate heated and controversial reactions, raising crucial questions about his legacy and historical impact. With Pope Francis recently announcing the start of the process for the beatification of the Belgian monarch, criticism and calls for caution are mounting, revealing a complex and sometimes dark history that cannot be ignored.
Baudouin I’s reign is undeniably marked by key moments, such as his refusal to ratify the abortion law in 1992, testifying to his deep religious conviction and commitment to his moral values. However, his story is also marred by shadows, including his controversial role in the decolonization of the Congo in 1960.
The independence of the Congo was a major turning point in Belgian and African history, marked by conflict, abuse and injustice. Baldwin I’s royal speech at this time, often criticized for its lack of recognition of the suffering inflicted during Belgian colonization, raises profound questions about his political and moral responsibility in this tumultuous period.
The calls of Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa, for a thorough investigation into Baldwin I’s role in the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, the first Congolese Prime Minister, highlight the gray areas of his reign and the need to carefully examine his legacy before sanctifying it. Ambongo rightly points out that Baldwin’s story has virtuous aspects, but that the darker aspects, such as his possible involvement in tragic events, must be taken into account fairly.
The question of the beatification of Baldwin I thus raises fundamental issues related to collective memory, historical responsibility and justice. It is essential to approach this debate with nuance, acknowledging both the achievements and the failings of the Belgian monarch, and allowing for a critical reassessment of his legacy in the complex context of decolonization and postcolonial history.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the beatification of Baudouin I invites us to reflect on the complexity of history and the need for a balanced and rigorous approach to collective memory. Beyond polemics and impassioned debates, it is our ability to confront the past and grasp its nuances that will allow us to build a more just and inclusive future for all.