Jean-Marc Kabund, president of the Alliance pour le changement (A.Ch) party and member of the Article 64 (C64) coalition, has expressed concern that President Félix Tshisekedi may be a victim of a serious misinformation campaign regarding the Manacé Lomboto case. In a statement addressed to the head of state on November 1, 2026, Kabund reacted to Tshisekedi's recent comments on the matter during his participation in the 3rd Russia-Africa summit in Moscow.
Kabund's concerns arise from Tshisekedi's statements suggesting that the interpellation of Prince Epenge, a C64 member, aims to uncover the truth about Manacé Lomboto's death. However, Kabund questions the accuracy of the information available to the president, citing potential misinformation by some of Tshisekedi's collaborators. Kabund fears that this misinformation may compromise the exercise of justice in the case.
The opposition leader also expressed concern that Tshisekedi's public statements on the case may influence the work of the magistrates handling the dossier. Kabund reminded the president of his duty to guarantee the independence of the judiciary and suggested that a certain level of reserve would have been necessary at this stage of the proceedings.
Kabund's reaction also touched on the broader context of the Tshisekedi regime's handling of opposition demonstrations. He warned against the consequences of a system in which the president's collaborators only provide information that aligns with his convictions. Kabund emphasized the dangers of such a system, which could lead to the president being isolated from reality and misinformed.
As a personal witness to the events surrounding Manacé Lomboto's death, Kabund stated that he saw Lomboto participate in a march and was present just before the attack that resulted in his death. Kabund expressed his willingness to testify before the justice system to shed light on the truth.
The case involves Prince Epenge, president of ADD Congo and C64 member, who was arrested on October 25, 2026, at N'djili airport as he prepared to travel to Rome for a C64 conclave. Epenge was detained by the DGM and later transferred to the prosecutor's office and then to Makala prison. His request for provisional release was rejected by the prosecutor on November 30, 2026.
The developments in the Manacé Lomboto case have sparked concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the handling of opposition members in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kabund's statement highlights the need for a thorough investigation and the importance of ensuring that the truth is revealed without interference or influence from any quarter.
Key points
- Jean-Marc Kabund warns President Félix Tshisekedi of potential misinformation in the Manacé Lomboto case.
- Kabund expresses concern that Tshisekedi's public statements may influence the work of magistrates handling the case.
- The case has sparked concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the handling of opposition members in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
