On October 5, 2026, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi and First Lady Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi paid a visit to the families of Lieutenant-General Lucien-René Likulia Bakumi and General Joseph Mutombo Katalay. The two high-ranking military magistrates died in a plane crash in Kenge, Kwango province. The presidential couple expressed their condolences to the bereaved families and honored the memory of the deceased.
Lieutenant-General Lucien-René Likulia Bakumi served as the Auditor General of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while General Joseph Mutombo Katalay held the position of First President of the High Military Court. Their sudden deaths have significantly impacted two major institutions of the Congolese military justice system. The plane crash also claimed the lives of several other members of the delegation on board.
The visit by President Tshisekedi and First Lady Nyakeru was a gesture of support to the grieving families. It took place a few days after the government declared a national period of mourning for the 17 victims of the accident. For three days, authorities called for reflection and restraint, and flags were flown at half-mast across the country.
The crash has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident, and investigations are underway to determine the causes of the accident and any potential responsibilities. For the families of the victims, the tribute paid by the authorities is just one step; they now await a thorough investigation into the Kenge plane crash.
President Tshisekedi and First Lady Nyakeru's visit to the families of the deceased high-ranking magistrates demonstrates the government's commitment to honoring the victims and providing support to their loved ones. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Congolese military and judicial institutions.
The Lieutenant-General and General's deaths have left a significant void in the Congolese military justice system. Their contributions to the country's justice institutions will be remembered, and their legacy will continue to inspire others to serve in their footsteps.
The government has assured the public that a thorough investigation into the plane crash will be conducted to establish the facts and determine the causes of the accident. The findings of the investigation will be made public, and those responsible will be held accountable.
Key points
- President Félix Tshisekedi and First Lady Denise Nyakeru visited the families of two high-ranking military magistrates killed in a plane crash in Kenge, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- The government declared a national period of mourning for the 17 victims of the accident.
- Investigations are underway to determine the causes of the plane crash and any potential responsibilities.
