DR Congo official banned from media over threats
Fils Mukoko, an official of the ruling UDPS party, faces media ban and judicial inquiry for inciting violence against Western nationals.
Congolese authorities have reacted strongly to controversial statements made by Fils Mukoko, a cadre of the UDPS party. Mukoko allegedly posted threats on social media to arm youth against Western nationals following searches of residences near the presidential family. In response, the Superior Council of Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC) banned Mukoko from all media and social networks for 88 days, citing violations of human life sanctity and respect for diplomatic missions.
Mukoko has also been removed from his position as deputy director general of the Kinshasa Sanitation Authority (RASKIN) by the city's governor. The Ministry of Justice has initiated a judicial investigation, with the Minister of State for Justice instructing the prosecutor general to examine allegations that Mukoko spoke of distributing weapons and threatening Western residents.
The government stated that the gravity of Mukoko's declarations warrants rigorous verification by judicial authorities. The Ministry emphasized that freedom of expression does not justify threats, intimidation, or statements endangering others' lives, regardless of constitutional guarantees.
Why it mattersFils Mukoko's alleged threats and subsequent ban affect Western nationals living in DR Congo and the country's political stability.