Category: Politics

** Kinshasa: Navigate between price disillusions and routing infrastructure **

Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a critical turning point in its public transport system. Despite a tariff grid established by Governor Daniel Bumba to lighten the economic burden of the Kinois, public transport drivers continue to challenge this regulation. This disagreement reveals deeper issues, between political commitment and reality on the ground, leaving users in uncertainty.

The need for a constructive dialogue between the authorities and the players in the sector is obvious. International examples, such as the integration of digital technologies in Nairobi, could inspire an in -depth reform in Kinshasa. At the same time, the disastrous state of the roads exacerbates pricing tensions, stressing the urgency of investments in infrastructure.

Finally, with a growing population, the city must rethink its mobility. Experts call for innovative solutions to deal with urbanization challenges, from the creation of cycle paths to the introduction of alternative transport.

To get out of this dead end, a call for collective action is imperative. Kinshasa deserves a daring vision for effective public transport, and Kinois must mobilize to claim the changes necessary for the transformation of their daily life.

** NAZEM NAZEMBE: an inheritance of integrity and commitment for the future of Haut-Katanga **

The recent disappearance of Nazem Nazembe, a former provincial deputy and a fervent defender of a transparent policy, has left an immense void in the political community of Haut-Katanga. Died on February 6 in Lebanon, this statesman, recognized for his pragmatism and his collaborative vision, was able to mark his imprint the local political landscape. His exemplary journey, dotted with engagement and integrity, offers a model to follow in these troubled times. The challenge that is now posed to the new generations of elected officials is to perpetuate the values ​​he defended: solidarity, transparency and service to the common good. Nazembe reminds us that a real political change is possible, provided that those who have known it continue to work in his mind. By honoring his memory, let’s take example from his heritage to build a better future.

### The fragile balance of democracy in Diego-Suarez

In Diego-Suarez, the eviction of mayor Jean-Luc Djavojozara, elected with more than 65% of the votes, seriously questions democratic legitimacy. Accused of embezzlement, the latter sees his mandate suspended, while a president of special delegation, close to power, is imposed. This situation illustrates not only an infringement of the political rights of citizens, but also growing economic tensions, exacerbated by a fall in tourism in this region already affected by the consequences of the pandemic.

The protest movements are multiplying, and civil society seems ready to mobilize. A growing feeling of concern hangs over the future of Malagasy democracy, while political actors and investors wonder if Diego-Suarez will be able to restore his confidence and his attractiveness. The coming days will be crucial for the future of this city and its aspiration for a real change.

**Leprosy in Haut-Katanga: An Alarming Neglected Reality**

Leprosy, often seen as a disease from another era, is resurfacing with alarming frequency in Haut-Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite free and effective treatments available, the provincial Minister of Health, Joseph Sambi Bulanda, revealed worrying statistics: 932 new cases in 2021 and 417 cases in 2024. Stigma, lack of awareness of symptoms and limited access to care are hampering screening and awareness-raising efforts. Far from being a simple medical issue, this resurgence calls into question essential values ​​such as inclusion and human dignity. To truly combat this scourge, strong community engagement and an integrated approach to development programs are essential. The fight against leprosy in Haut-Katanga could thus become a significant example of the challenges that society must face in terms of public health and social justice.

**Democratic Republic of Congo: State of Emergency and Security Challenges on the Front Lines**

The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a complexity of security challenges as President Félix Tshisekedi extends the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri. The intensification of violence linked to armed groups, notably the M23, and the impact of the presence of Rwandan forces raise questions about the effectiveness of these measures. Despite a slight decrease in incidents, the lives of civilians remain deeply affected by insecurity.

The arrival of Major General Evariste Kakule Somo, the new military governor of North Kivu, is accompanied by hopes of change in the face of the stranglehold of armed groups. However, the socio-political and economic stakes remain colossal, also affecting the development of the region’s natural resources.

To move towards sustainable peace, it is crucial to promote inclusive dialogue and strengthen the rule of law. Transforming challenges into opportunities will require a collective commitment to security, development and responsible governance. The future of the DRC depends on the ability to build trust and cooperation between different communities.

### Media Warfare: An Unavoidable Contemporary Challenge

In a world where information travels at the speed of light, distinguishing truth from falsehood has become a real headache. Modernity has transformed armed conflicts into digital battles where propaganda and disinformation are as cruel as the clashes on the ground. Historically, these strategies have shaped powerful narratives, as evidenced by the dark lessons of the past.

Today, as countries like Ukraine fight media battles against opposing powers, the manipulation of narratives has taken on an unprecedented scale with social networks. A Pew Research Center study reveals that nearly two-thirds of American citizens believe that false information threatens their understanding of sociopolitical issues. In this context, trust in the media is deteriorating, making the population more vulnerable to rumors.

As we face an avalanche of contradictory information, it becomes imperative to develop critical thinking and educate citizens against disinformation. The future of our freedom depends on our choices today. It is time to become aware of the indispensable role of information and to commit to transparency, which is essential to democracy.

**Ecuador: A decisive vote between security, economy and democratic future**

The Ecuadorian presidential election, which will take place this weekend, pits incumbent President Daniel Noboa against his leftist rival Luisa Gonzalez. Beyond the duel between these two candidates, the stakes are high: finding solutions to an economic crisis exacerbated by unprecedented violence. Noboa advocates strengthening security while Gonzalez calls for social dialogue and tax reforms to ease the burden on the most vulnerable. In a context of threats to democratic institutions, voters must seize this opportunity to express their vision for the future of the country, because their decision could transform Ecuador’s social and economic structures. The consequences of this vote will go beyond the simple choice between two political figures, reflecting a desire for collective change that is crucial for the future of the nation.

### The Complexity of Negotiations in Ukraine: Between Hopes and Realities

As Russian forces intensify their offensive on eastern Ukraine, particularly around Chassiv Yar, Volodymyr Zelensky proposes direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin, a move that raises questions. This context of war, marked by a human tragedy where thousands of civilians are displaced and faced with shortages, underlines the deterioration of conditions in Ukraine, already in the grip of a severe economic crisis.

Russia’s military strategy, focused on attrition and intimidation, makes peace talks even more complicated. Ukrainian military losses in the face of formidable Russian artillery reinforce the climate of despair. Thus, although the will for peace is indisputable, the path to it seems steep and strewn with past failures.

The crucial question remains: can the quest for peace really be accompanied by a solid defensive approach? The outcome of this conflict, at the crossroads of human aspirations and military realities, is emerging as a colossal challenge for Ukraine and the international community.

### The release of Jean-Jacques Wondo: A crucial step forward for human rights

On 4 February 2025, Jean-Jacques Wondo, a Belgian-Congolese expert wrongly sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was released, marking a significant victory in the fight for human rights. His trial, marred by doubts about the legitimacy of the evidence, sparked a strong international reaction, illustrating the importance of global solidarity in defending fundamental rights. By denouncing the conviction and recalling its ambassador to Kinshasa, Belgium showed that diplomacy can play a vital role in the face of abuses. This release also calls into question the death penalty, a practice still in place in several countries. While inspiring hope, the Wondo case underscores the need for continued vigilance to ensure that such injustices do not recur, both in the DRC and globally.

**Örebro: A Nation’s Reflection on Violence**

The tragedy of Örebro, where ten lives were lost in a school shooting, sheds light on a dark side of Swedish society. Long seen as a bastion of peace, Sweden is now rediscovering the reality of an unsuspected vulnerability, buried beneath its apparent normality. As the country grapples with this unprecedented tragedy, crucial questions emerge: how can we reinvent security policies and adapt society’s response to rising gun violence? International examples, such as Australia’s, could offer insights into gun control and mental health, but a cultural shift is also essential. Schools must become havens of dialogue and support, breaking the silence around mental health issues and forging community solidarity. As Sweden mourns, it finds itself at a crossroads: turning this pain into a catalyst for change could make all the difference to the future of this nation.