The Episcopal Conference of the DRC has responded to accusations by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba, which suggest the Catholic Church incites hatred against the government and mismanages funds for charitable work. Bishop Donatien Nshole emphasized collaboration with the government on social projects and called for evidence to support Bemba’s claims, amidst ongoing political tensions about potential constitutional reforms affecting the presidential term limits.
Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – In response to accusations made by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba, the General Secretariat of the Episcopal Conference of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has issued a statement expressing dismay over derogatory remarks attributed to the Catholic Church. Bemba’s remarks on “Radio Top Congo” suggested that religious leaders were inciting hatred against the government and hinted at the mismanagement of funds allocated for charitable work. Bishop Donatien Nshole, representing the Episcopal Conference, challenged these claims by asking for concrete evidence and emphasized the Church’s commitment to collaborating with the government on socio-economic initiatives for local communities. He clarified that, despite the promise of significant support from the government, only limited funds had been disbursed so far. This controversy arises amidst political tensions regarding proposed constitutional amendments that could allow the current President, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi, to seek a third term, with the Movement for the Liberation of Congo party supporting such changes despite opposition from some church leaders.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing significant political turmoil, especially regarding proposed constitutional reforms that would permit the incumbent president to extend his tenure. This situation has led to heightened tensions between political figures and religious leaders, particularly with the Catholic Church, which has voiced concerns about peace and stability in the region. The Deputy Prime Minister’s remarks reflect broader political debates and allegations regarding the integrity of both politicians and religious institutions in the DRC, raising important issues about governance and accountability.
In summary, the Episcopal Conference of the DRC has publicly refuted the allegations made by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba regarding their role in inciting political hatred, calling for substantiated evidence. The response underscores the Catholic Church’s ongoing commitment to collaboration with the government, while also highlighting concerns over the inadequate financial support promised for development initiatives. This situation unfolds amid significant political controversy regarding potential constitutional changes that may affect presidential term limits.
Original Source: www.fides.org
