A situation of confusion has arisen in the commune of Likasi, located in the Haut-Katanga province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Two individuals, Olivier Munongo Msiri Koboko and Leya Banza, are currently claiming the position of mayor. According to local sources, Olivier Munongo, the titular mayor, had been absent for nine months due to health reasons but returned to work after being rehabilitated by the Haut-Katanga Court of Appeal.
Olivier Munongo was reinstated on September 21 by court bailiffs in the presence of the communal security council. A handover document was subsequently submitted to the Likasi town hall and the prosecutor's office. Since his return, Munongo has been working from the commune office. However, Leya Banza, who has been serving as interim mayor since January 2026, continues to carry out her duties and does not recognize Munongo's reinstatement.
Leya Banza recently participated in an expanded provincial security council meeting that included mayors and burgomasters of Haut-Katanga. In a service communiqué dated September 19, she stated that she remains responsible for the commune, citing a letter from the interim governor of Haut-Katanga, dated January 21, 2026, appointing her as interim mayor. Banza has since relocated her office to a different location.
The current situation has resulted in two mayors working from separate offices, causing confusion among residents and administrative officials. Despite the developments, the provincial authority of Haut-Katanga has not yet issued a statement on the matter. Residents and local leaders are reportedly concerned about the impact of this leadership dispute on the delivery of essential services in the commune.
According to Radio Okapi, a local news outlet, Munongo's return was facilitated by a court ruling that effectively overturned his earlier suspension. Banza's continued claim to the position has created a standoff, with neither side appearing willing to concede. This development has sparked fears of further instability in the region.
The commune of Likasi is located in a region that has experienced significant challenges in recent years, including insecurity and infrastructure deficits. The dispute over leadership has raised concerns about the potential for further conflict and the impact on efforts to address these underlying issues.
The situation in Likasi highlights the complexities and challenges of governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where local administrative disputes can often have broader implications for stability and development. As the situation continues to unfold, residents and observers are closely watching for any developments that may help resolve the leadership dispute.
Key points
- Two mayors claim leadership of Likasi commune in Haut-Katanga province
- Dispute arises from conflicting claims of legitimacy and jurisdiction
- Provincial authority has not yet issued a statement on the matter
