Butembo-Beni bishop calls out political failings in DRC

Geste posé par la caravane panafricaine pour Paix et l’Unité en RDC au bord de l’océan Atlantique – Photo d’illustration  

Bishop Sikuli Paluku Melchisédech of the Butembo-Beni diocese in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has issued a strong rebuke to the country’s authorities. In a message released on the feast of the martyrs Charles Lwanga and his companions, he lamented the deteriorating social and security conditions in his region.

The bishop expressed his bitterness at what he called a clear gap between the priorities of politicians and the real, legitimate needs of the Congolese people. He pointed to the worsening violence and instability in the diocese as evidence that leaders are out of touch with the daily struggles of citizens.