The governor of Lualaba province in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has expressed deep sorrow over the death of two high-ranking military justice officials in a plane crash. The accident occurred in Kenge, the capital of the Kwango province, and claimed the lives of 17 people. The victims included Lieutenant General Mutombo Katalayi, the first president of the High Military Court, and Lieutenant General Likulia Bakumi, the auditor general of the Armed Forces of the DRC near the High Military Court.

Governor Marie-Thérèse Fifi Masuka conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased and to the nation, stating that the province is in mourning. She described the crash as a tragic event that has caused immense sadness and consternation. The governor also extended her sympathies to President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, the head of state and commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the DRC.

The plane crash has sent shockwaves through the military justice system in the DRC. The loss of Lieutenant General Mutombo Katalayi and Lieutenant General Likulia Bakumi is seen as a significant blow to the country's military justice institutions. The two officials played critical roles in maintaining order and upholding the law within the military.

As a mark of respect and compassion, the governor announced the cancellation of a gala event scheduled for September 26, 2026, which was meant to close the activities commemorating World Tourism Day in Lualaba province. The event was postponed due to the tragic circumstances surrounding the plane crash in the Kwango province.

The DRC has experienced several high-profile accidents in recent years, raising concerns about aviation safety in the country. The government has been working to improve safety standards and regulations in the aviation sector. The cause of the plane crash in Kenge is yet to be determined, and an investigation is likely to be launched.

The death of the two top military justice officials has sparked reactions from various quarters, with many expressing shock and sadness. The incident has highlighted the risks and challenges faced by military personnel and officials in the line of duty. The nation is coming to terms with the loss of the two distinguished officials.

The governor's message of condolence has been echoed by various institutions and individuals across the country. The nation is uniting to mourn the loss of Lieutenant General Mutombo Katalayi and Lieutenant General Likulia Bakumi. KEY_POINT: The plane crash claimed the lives of 17 people, including two high-ranking military justice officials.

Key points

  • The governor of Lualaba province expressed deep sorrow over the death of the two officials.
  • The incident has sparked reactions from various quarters, with many expressing shock and sadness.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.