Members of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) are shocked by reports of a coup attempt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) early on Pentecost Sunday, May 19.
In a statement shared on May 21, CENCO members say they “strongly” condemn the attack, which they believe undermines the democratic institutions of the country.
A group of about 50 armed people in camouflage attacked the homes of the Prime Minister, the Minister of Defence, and a senior politician expected to become the Speaker of the National Assembly, according to Reuters. The leader of the attempted coup was killed, and around 50 people, including three American citizens, were arrested.
CENCO members expressed their shock in the statement: “It is with great shock that we learned through the media, on this Pentecost Sunday, of the attacks which were perpetrated in the early hours of this Sunday, May 19, 2024, against the Palais de la Nation, seat of the Presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as against the residence of Mr. Vital Kamerhe, candidate for Speaker of the National Assembly.”
The Catholic Bishops in DRC condemned the attacks, stating they undermined the country’s institutions and caused loss of life. They added, “It is unacceptable that an armed group should take up residence in the heart of Kinshasa, the country’s capital.”
CENCO members expressed condolences to the bereaved families and those affected by the violence, and they “entrust to God’s mercy the innocent people who lost their lives in these attacks.”
They addressed images circulating on social media showing Bishops with the presumed mastermind of the attacks, Christian Malanga, clarifying that these photos do not imply a special relationship. They condemned any misuse of these images for malicious purposes.
CENCO members stressed that Christian Malanga is not associated with any official Catholic institution and that his actions do not represent the Church.
They called on authorities to strengthen national unity and urged the Congolese people to remain vigilant and not give in to fear.
In their statement, CENCO reassured the people of DRC of their spiritual support, praying, “May the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of courage and life, flood the hearts of all; and through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of the Congo, may the Lord bless the DR Congo and ensure its peace.”
Source: ACIAFRICA
