Democratic Republic of the Congo President Félix Tshisekedi provided accurate information regarding the death of opposition activist Manassé Lomboto, according to Prosecutor General Firmin Mvonde. On November 10, 2026, Mvonde stated that Tshisekedi's comments helped to diffuse tension surrounding Lomboto's death. The President had addressed the issue on October 30, 2026, while speaking to the Congolese diaspora in Russia.
Mvonde dismissed criticism targeting Tshisekedi over his statements about Lomboto's death. The Prosecutor General emphasized that had Lomboto been buried without proper investigation, it would have validated claims that he died from injuries sustained during a protest. Instead, Mvonde confirmed that Lomboto died from a medical condition, citing available medical expertise as evidence.
The controversy surrounding Lomboto's death has sparked debate between the opposition and the government. Mvonde noted that the pre-trial investigation is typically confidential but acknowledged that Tshisekedi's comments helped to maintain social peace. The case is now moving forward, with Mvonde stating that it is "in the process of being finalized."
Tshisekedi had previously rejected accusations of repressing the opposition following the arrest of Prince Epenge, president of ADD Congo and spokesperson for the Lamuka platform. In a video published on November 1, 2026, by the Presidency of the DRC, Tshisekedi explained that being an opposition member does not exempt one from potential prosecution for spreading false information.
The President linked Epenge's arrest to his alleged role in disseminating information about Lomboto's death. Tshisekedi argued that the opposition attempted to attribute Lomboto's death to violence during the September 15 protest, but he maintained that Lomboto died from a medical condition. This stance aligns with Mvonde's recent statements supporting the President's account.
The case has drawn reactions from various quarters, with some opposition figures criticizing the government's handling of the situation. Martin Fayulu, for example, denounced what he termed as a "two-speed justice system" following Epenge's arrest. In contrast, the Prosecutor General's endorsement of Tshisekedi's comments has reinforced the government's position on the matter.
The developments in this case have significant implications for the Congolese justice system and the relationship between the government and the opposition. As the case moves forward, it will be crucial to monitor how the authorities handle the situation and whether the opposition's concerns about justice and fairness are addressed. Key points:
Key points
- Prosecutor General Firmin Mvonde supports President Félix Tshisekedi's account of Manassé Lomboto's death.
- Tshisekedi's comments helped to diffuse tension surrounding Lomboto's death.
- The case has sparked controversy between the opposition and the government.
