On November 10, 2026, Congolese opposition figure Delly Sesanga expressed concerns about the potential politicization of the judicial dispute between Moïse Katumbi and his brother, Raphaël Katebe Katoto, before the Court of Cassation. Sesanga urged that the case be examined solely based on facts and law, without being used as a tool for political score-settling. He emphasized the importance of an independent and impartial judiciary in the country's democratic process.
The dispute between Katumbi and Katebe Katoto involves allegations of property spoliation and the use of contested documents. Raphaël Katebe Katoto has accused his brother of seizing several properties in Haut-Katanga, including a villa in Lubumbashi and farms. However, Katumbi's entourage has rejected these accusations. The case has sparked concerns about the potential misuse of the justice system for political gain.
Delly Sesanga's statement comes amid a complex and sensitive context. Katebe Katoto, who is close to President Félix Tshisekedi, is seen as a key supporter of the president's continued rule beyond 2028. On the other hand, Moïse Katumbi is a prominent opposition figure. Sesanga's warning suggests that the case could be used to weaken Katumbi's political position.
Sesanga also highlighted the risks of undermining the independence and impartiality of the judiciary. He argued that using the justice system to target political adversaries amounts to a form of political violence and undermines democratic principles. The opposition figure emphasized that being an opponent is not a crime and that the justice system should not be used to silence political rivals.
The case has also sparked controversy over the role of the judiciary in the country's democratic process. Katumbi's defense team has argued that he is not justiciable before the Court of Cassation. Furthermore, Katumbi recently initiated a procedure against the magistrate who fixed the case before the Court of Cassation, accusing him of committing a dol in the exercise of his functions.
The dispute between Katumbi and Katebe Katoto has significant implications for the country's political landscape. The case has been closely watched by political observers, who see it as a test of the judiciary's independence and impartiality. Sesanga's warning has added to the pressure on the judiciary to ensure that the case is examined fairly and without political interference.
The outcome of the case could have far-reaching consequences for the country's democratic process. If the judiciary is seen as being politicized or biased, it could undermine trust in the institution and exacerbate existing tensions. Sesanga's call for a fair and impartial examination of the case has been echoed by many who are concerned about the potential misuse of the justice system for political gain.
Key points
- Delly Sesanga warns against using the justice system to target political adversaries in the case involving Moïse Katumbi and Raphaël Katebe Katoto.
