In a ceremony attended by the provincial Minister of Interior and Customary Affairs, Maître Lawamo Selemani Taylor, and local residents, Lingandja Deogratias has been officially installed as the new chief of Bangengele chiefdom in the Democratic Republic of Congo's Maniema province. The event took place on October 30, 2026, and was also attended by the administrator of the Kailo territory and members of the local security council.

The installation ceremony was reportedly peaceful, with the outgoing chief's secretary representing him. According to Lotonga Kabwana, a resident of Bangengele and member of civil society, the handover was smooth, with no disputes, fights, or injuries reported. Kabwana expressed hope that the calm atmosphere would continue and that the new chief would work to unite the community.

Kabwana emphasized the need for the new chief to work in a spirit of unity, without distinction between residents. He urged Lingandja Deogratias to work like a family father, bringing together the entire population regardless of their opinions or convictions. This sentiment was echoed by some residents who expressed hopes that the new chief would address the challenges facing the chiefdom.

However, reactions from the population are mixed, with some residents welcoming the change in leadership while others have expressed reservations. The main challenge for Lingandja Deogratias will be to gain the trust of the different components of the population and work to strengthen unity within the Bangengele chiefdom.

The new chief's ability to unite the community will be crucial in addressing the challenges facing the chiefdom. Residents are looking forward to seeing Lingandja Deogratias work towards promoting peace and stability in the area. The provincial Minister of Interior and Customary Affairs was present to oversee the installation process.

The installation of Lingandja Deogratias as the new chief of Bangengele chiefdom marks a significant development in the region. The local population has been eagerly waiting for the new leadership to bring about positive change. As the chiefdom moves forward, the focus will be on whether Lingandja Deogratias can meet the expectations of the residents.

The road ahead for Lingandja Deogratias will not be easy, but with the support of the local population, he may be able to make a positive impact. The people of Bangengele chiefdom are looking forward to seeing their new chief work towards promoting unity and development in the area.

Key points

  • - Lingandja Deogratias was installed as the new chief of Bangengele chiefdom in DR Congo's Maniema province. - The installation ceremony was attended by local officials and residents, and was reportedly peaceful. - The new chief faces the challenge of uniting the community and addressing the challenges facing the chiefdom.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.