Chérubin Okende – Congolese opponent found dead in Kinshasa
On July 13, the news of the death of Chérubin Okende, Congolese deputy and former minister, shook the Democratic Republic of Congo. The body of the political opponent was found lifeless in his car in Kinshasa. This tragedy aroused great emotion in the country and raised many questions about the circumstances of his death.
Today, Maître Alexis Deswaef, lawyer in Belgium and legal representative of Okende’s family, filed a criminal complaint with a Brussels investigating judge. This complaint directly targets the head of military intelligence of the DRC, who happens to be of Belgian nationality. According to Deswaef, there is evidence showing that military intelligence played a leading role in the kidnapping, torture and assassination of Chérubin Okende.
What makes this complaint particularly interesting is that the head of military intelligence, Major General Christian Ndaywel, is himself of Belgian nationality. Under Belgian law, a Belgian national can be prosecuted for serious crimes committed abroad, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and crimes under international humanitarian law. In the context of political unrest and violence in the DRC, the jurisdiction of the Belgian courts in this case could be a glimmer of hope for Okende’s family, who are seeking justice for the death of their loved one.
This criminal complaint represents a turning point in the Chérubin Okende affair and raises questions about the role of Congolese authorities in this tragic death. Until now, the Congolese authorities have not responded to the accusations against the head of military intelligence. However, this legal step could eventually lead to a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Chérubin Okende and the identification of those responsible.
For Okende’s family, this criminal complaint represents hope for the truth to emerge and justice for their missing loved one. They are counting on the Belgian judicial system to conduct an independent and fair investigation, in order to shed light on this disturbing matter.
In conclusion, the death of Chérubin Okende continues to raise questions and debates in the DRC. The criminal complaint filed against the head of Belgian military intelligence marks an important step in this case and could potentially pave the way for further legal action. The next developments in this affair will be closely monitored, as they will have a significant impact on the Congolese political and judicial landscape.