Martin Fayulu Madidi, leader of the Engagement for Citizenship and Development, has spoken out from Rome, Italy, where he is currently residing. He strongly condemns the prolonged detention of Prince Epenge, his close collaborator, and demands that his fundamental rights be respected. Fayulu also calls for an independent investigation into recent political violence in Kinshasa. Prince Epenge has been in detention for five days, sparking outrage within the opposition ranks.
According to Fayulu, Prince Epenge was first held in custody for 48 hours at the National Cybercrime Council before being transferred to the prosecutor's office near the Kinshasa/Gombe Court of Appeal. Fayulu criticizes the arrest and detention conditions, describing them as arbitrary and aimed at silencing critical voices against the central government. The political climate in Kinshasa remains tense.
Fayulu's concerns extend beyond Prince Epenge's situation. He also demands a thorough investigation into the tragic death of militant Manassé Lomboto, who died during the opposition march on September 15, 2026. Fayulu directly blames the "Force du Progrès," a structure he claims is a militia operating on behalf of the ruling party, UDPS/Tshisekedi, for the violent incidents.
The leader of Lamuka demands an independent, impartial, and in-depth judicial investigation to establish the exact circumstances of Lomboto's death and to sanction those responsible. Fayulu urges the judicial authorities to examine a complaint filed by the C64 lawyers without delay. He also warns against any maneuver to make Prince Epenge a scapegoat to stifle this affair.
Meanwhile, two US senators, Jeffrey A. Merkley and Marsha Blackburn, have written to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, urging him to end the partnership between the National Basketball Association and the Rwandan government. They cite Rwanda's involvement in destabilizing the Democratic Republic of Congo as the reason for their request.
In other news, senators from the United States are pushing for the NBA to sever ties with Rwanda. The collaboration between the NBA and the Rwandan government may be coming to an end. This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.
The situation in Kinshasa remains volatile, with ongoing concerns about human rights and the rule of law. Martin Fayulu's call for the release of Prince Epenge and an investigation into the violence highlights the challenges facing the country. The international community is watching closely, with some, like the US senators, taking action to address the situation.
Key points
- Martin Fayulu demands the immediate release of Prince Epenge and an independent investigation into recent political violence in Kinshasa.
