A controversy has erupted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo over the death of Manassé Lomboto, a security member for opposition leader Prince Epenge. President Félix Tshisekedi has stated that Lomboto died of illness, contradicting claims by opposition leaders that he was killed during a protest in Kinshasa. The incident has sparked a heated exchange between Tshisekedi and opposition leaders Jean-Marc Kabund and Martin Fayulu.
On October 30, President Tshisekedi addressed the Congolese diaspora in Moscow, stating that Lomboto had died of illness. This statement was met with criticism from Kabund and Fayulu, who claim that Lomboto was beaten to death by members of the Force du progrès during a protest. The opposition leaders have demanded an investigation into Lomboto's death and the release of Prince Epenge, who was arrested and detained in connection with the incident.
Prince Epenge, a leader of the ADD Congo party, was blocked at Kinshasa's N'Djili airport as he attempted to travel to Rome for a meeting of the Coalition article 64 (C64). He was subsequently detained at the central prison in Makala on charges of spreading false information. Epenge had claimed that Lomboto was killed during the protest, which the government has denied.
Jean-Marc Kabund has expressed disappointment with President Tshisekedi's comments, stating that they demonstrate a lack of understanding of the situation. Kabund, a former ally of Tshisekedi, has accused the president's entourage of manipulating him and hiding the truth about Lomboto's death. He has also stated that he is willing to testify about what he witnessed during the protest.
Martin Fayulu, leader of the ÉCiDé party, has also condemned Tshisekedi's comments and demanded an investigation into Lomboto's death. Fayulu has called for the release of Prince Epenge and an end to what he describes as harassment of opposition members. He has warned that intimidation will not silence the truth about Lomboto's death.
The incident has highlighted tensions between the government and opposition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The opposition has accused the government of using excessive force during protests and of attempting to silence critics. The government has denied these allegations, but the controversy over Lomboto's death has raised concerns about human rights and the rule of law in the country.
The case has sparked a wider debate about the role of the judiciary and the independence of institutions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Opposition leaders have accused the government of attempting to manipulate the justice system and silence critics. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the justice system in addressing human rights abuses and holding those in power accountable.
Key points
- The controversy over Manassé Lomboto's death has highlighted tensions between the government and opposition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- President Félix Tshisekedi and opposition leaders have exchanged accusations over Lomboto's death.
- The incident has raised concerns about human rights and the rule of law in the country.
