“Fin de race”: Kash’s committed album which deciphers Congolese political news
The National Museum of the DRC recently hosted the launch of the fourth album of caricatures entitled “Fin de course”, created by the famous Congolese cartoonist Thembo Muhindo Kashauri, also known as Kash. This work, of which the author points out that it brings together his political drawings, addresses several current themes such as the death of political leader Étienne Tshisekedi, insecurity in the East and the reign of Joseph Kabila.
The collection, composed of seven chapters, was analyzed by Professor Hilaire Mbiye, who underlines the critical and satirical political dimension of the work. According to him, Kash uses caricature to denounce the abuses and weaknesses of political actors, while expressing the anxieties and concerns of the author.
“Fin de course” also presents itself as a communication tool to fight against the dehumanization of the Congolese people, by illustrating the significant events in the political history of the country between 2012 and 2018. It is similar to a journalistic chronicle, offering a historical narration of facts in chronological order.
Kash, a pioneer of caricature in the DRC, is recognized for his creative freedom and his talent for translating the essence of information through his drawings. He has won numerous awards both nationally and internationally and has exhibited his works in several countries.
This committed artist considers that creative freedom is essential for any artist, thus allowing him to convey his messages in an authentic way. Originally from Butembo, in North Kivu, Kash studied graphic arts in Kinshasa, before starting out as a press cartoonist and advertising designer.
In addition to his comic book publications, he also contributed to the organization of the African Comic Strip and Reading Fair for Youth, thus demonstrating his commitment to the promotion of culture and creativity.
With “Fin de race”, Kash continues his work of deciphering Congolese political news through satire and caricature, thus offering an incisive look at the events which mark the country. His commitment to creative freedom and his desire to denounce injustices make him an essential figure in the Congolese and African artistic community.
The album “Fin de course” is a living testimony to the importance of art and satire in the Congolese political context, and constitutes an invitation to reflection and awareness in society. By observing Kash’s drawings, the reader is led to question the behavior and decisions of political actors, while wondering about the issues and hidden truths of the Congolese political scene.. An entertaining and enlightening read that reminds us of the power of satire as a tool of resistance and artistic expression.