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Remembering Laurent-Désiré Kabila: 24 Years After His Assassination

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The Editorial Staff

Jan 16, 2025

Laurent-Désiré Kabila, the third President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (1997-2001)

Laurent-Désiré Kabila, the third President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (1997-2001)

Laurent-Désiré Kabila, the third President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (1997-2001), is remembered as a national hero. He took office by overthrowing Marshal Mobutu, who had ruled for 32 years. However, his leadership was cut short when he was assassinated in his office on January 16, 2001.


The Assassination of a Leader

On that fateful Tuesday, Kinshasa was still in a festive mood following New Year celebrations. President Kabila was working in his office at the Marble Palace when he received a visit from his economic advisor, Mota. They were discussing his upcoming trip to Yaoundé, Cameroon, for the 21st France-Africa summit.


Just before 2 p.m., a young soldier named Rachidi entered the room, pretending to offer his respects. Instead, he pulled out a gun and shot the President at close range. Two bullets hit Kabila—one in the neck and another in the lower abdomen.


Hearing the gunshots, Colonel Eddy Kapend, Kabila’s Chief of Staff, rushed in with soldiers. They found Mzee bleeding on the ground while Mota tried to revive him. The assassin attempted to escape but was quickly captured and killed by the guards.


Confirmation of Death

Chaos erupted at the Marble Palace. The military arranged for a helicopter to transfer the injured President to the Ngaliema Clinic. Rumors of his death spread quickly, but the Minister of Communication at the time, Sakombi, initially denied them. Ironically, the first solid confirmation of Kabila’s death came from Uganda, where President Museveni’s security services informed news agencies that he was "101%" dead. The Congolese government later officially confirmed his passing, declaring national mourning.


Kinshasa Still Honors His Memory

Every January 16 is a public holiday in the DRC, as people remember Kabila's contributions to the nation. Many consider him a true nationalist who fought for Congo's sovereignty. His famous words, "Never betray the Congo," continue to inspire generations. His rejection of Western influence and push for economic independence are seen by some as reasons behind his assassination.


A Leader Who Left a Mark

Christian Bule, a PhD student in international relations and supporter of the Congolese Liberation Movement (MLC), regards Kabila as a key figure in the country’s political history. He believes Kabila's revolutionary ideas greatly influenced the DRC's economic and political direction. However, he also notes that his death led to internal struggles and conflicts over power.


Similarly, Emmanuel Ngamayama, a law graduate and former student leader at the University of Bandundu, sees Kabila as a symbol of patriotism. He laments that his story, like that of Lumumba and other Congolese martyrs, is not widely taught to the younger generation, which risks his legacy being forgotten.


His Legacy Lives On

Many young Congolese continue to recognize Kabila's impact. Journalism student Plamedi Wala praises his nationalist stance but acknowledges that his rise to power brought both unity and rebellion. Meanwhile, his classmate Bruno N’saka highlights Kabila’s decision to restore the country’s original national anthem, “Debout Congolais,” which had been replaced by Mobutu.


Despite any faults he may have had, Laurent-Désiré Kabila remains a significant figure in Congolese history. His dedication to the nation serves as an enduring example of patriotism and loyalty to one’s country. He will always be remembered as a leader who gave everything for the DRC.

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