Triumphant Return of Moïse Katumbi Sparks Political Speculation in DRC
The city of Lubumbashi witnessed an extraordinary moment on Tuesday as Moïse Katumbi Chapwe, Governor of Katanga Province and President of TP Mazembe, returned after a three-month absence due to health reasons. His homecoming turned into a massive popular celebration, with thousands of supporters lining the streets, chanting his name, and escorting his convoy from the airport — a 10-minute route that turned into a four-hour parade.
The magnitude of the reception did not go unnoticed. Gabriel Kyungu wa Kumwanza, President of the Katanga Provincial Assembly, even remarked: “Never has a politician been welcomed in Katanga like Moïse Katumbi.”
But it was Katumbi’s remarks that stirred deeper interest. Using a football metaphor, he declared:
“On the pitch, can an opposing team accept that the referee unfairly whistles against their own camp two penalties in a row and then adds more?”
This was widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of President Joseph Kabila’s alleged attempt to seek an unconstitutional third term, a move increasingly challenged by opposition leaders and civil society.
Though officially still aligned with the ruling majority, Katumbi’s growing popularity and ambiguous positioning have raised questions about his future political ambitions. Some speculate he could emerge as a key opposition figure or even a presidential contender in the upcoming elections.
Whether he formally enters the political arena or not, one thing is clear: Moïse Katumbi is now a force to be reckoned with in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s political landscape.
