Three years after Chérubin Okende's death, family and party still demand justice

Three years have passed since the death of Chérubin Okende, yet the circumstances surrounding his demise continue to fuel questions among his family and political associates. The prosecution's conclusion of suicide is firmly contested by Okende's family and his political party, Ensemble pour la République, who are resolute in their pursuit of truth and justice.

On the third anniversary of his passing, a memorial mass was held in Kinshasa, attended by family members, party militants, and political figures. During the commemoration, leaders of Moïse Katumbi's party reaffirmed their commitment to the political struggle Okende championed. Dieudonné Bolengetenge, the party's secretary general, stated that Okende's legacy is intrinsically linked to the fight against arbitrary rule and poor governance.

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We can only, by remembering his tragic disappearance, swear not to abandon the struggle he led among us and that we led together for the advent of a better Congo. We believe in the potential of our country. We are convinced that this country has the means to bring well-being and fulfillment to each of its children.

"We can only, by remembering his tragic disappearance, swear not to abandon the struggle he led among us and that we led together for the advent of a better Congo. We believe in the potential of our country. We are convinced that this country has the means to bring well-being and fulfillment to each of its children," Bolengetenge declared. He further argued that the nation's challenges stem largely from mismanagement and a disregard for public resources, adding, "Chérubin stood against arbitrariness and he paid with his life for it. We are still today standing against arbitrariness."

Since the initial findings, Okende's family and party members have consistently rejected the suicide theory. They are demanding a thorough investigation to establish the facts. Chérubin Okende, a prominent opposition figure and close associate of Moïse Katumbi, held a significant position within Ensemble pour la République when he was found dead in his car in Kinshasa in July 2023. His death caused widespread shock and emotion, and three years later, his loved ones are still seeking answers to the lingering questions surrounding the case.

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Some political families or personalities, when they come to power, they forget that the country and its resources are a common good. Chérubin stood against arbitrariness and he paid with his life for it. We are still today standing against arbitrariness.