Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo — December 29, 2025 Controversy Swirls Around DRC President’s Meeting on Anti-Tutsi Rhetoric. Kinshasa — Controversy is intensifying in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following President Félix Tshisekedi’s meeting with two expatriates from the United States, Jean-Claude Mubenga and Kalonji Kabamba wa Mulumba, on December 22nd. Critics argue that the encounter, which aimed to discuss national unity and sovereignty, inadvertently endorsed inflammatory rhetoric.
The following day, Mubenga posted content online that was widely condemned for its dehumanizing language and praise of armed groups accused of targeting Kinyarwanda — speaking civilians.
The content has sparked concern over the government’s stance on ethnic tensions. Major General Sylvain Ekenge, the army spokesperson, has also been suspended following controversial remarks about Tutsi women.
The army clarified that the comments were made in a personal capacity and do not reflect the government’s position.
The Tutsi ethnic group, which spans Rwanda and eastern Congo, has been at the center of decades of conflict and strained relations between the DRC and Rwanda.
The situation has raised fears of renewed ethnic violence.
In response to the incident, the government has not yet commented publicly.
However, regional officials have expressed concern over the apparent tolerance of anti — Tutsi rhetoric. Independent observers say the meeting and subsequent events have reignited debates about the government’s commitment to fostering national unity and protecting minority groups.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
Sources close to the matter say the government is under pressure to address the controversy and clarify its position on ethnic relations.
