The Bishops’ Conference of Congo has rebutted Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba’s claims of inciting hatred against the government. Bemba alleged mismanagement of funds by the church for charitable work, which the church denies, citing limited government disbursement for development projects. This controversy arises amid political tensions regarding constitutional changes allowing President Tshisekedi to seek a third term.
In response to accusations from Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba concerning the Catholic Church in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the General Secretariat of the Bishops’ Conference of Congo has expressed regret over statements made in a recent radio interview. Bemba alleged that politicians are inciting hatred against the government, and hinted at mismanagement of funds allocated to the church for charitable work. Bishop Donatien Nshole, responding on behalf of the church, requested evidence of such hatred, emphasizing the collaborative efforts outlined in an agreement between the Holy See and the Congolese government aimed at social and economic development. Notably, the government has only disbursed a total of $600,000 over two years to the dioceses, contrary to claims of substantial funding. The controversy comes against the backdrop of discussions surrounding constitutional revisions that would permit President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi to seek a third term, an initiative supported by Bemba’s political party, the Movement for the Liberation of Congo, amidst opposition from some local church leaders.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is marked by tensions between the government and the Catholic Church, particularly surrounding issues of governance and constitutional reforms. The church has often been a vocal critic of the current regime, which has led to accusations of inciting hatred from political leaders. The recent allegations by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba spotlight concerns about potential mismanagement of church funds intended for community development. The Catholic Church has established a partnership with the government to enhance social services, further complicating the narrative of animosity.
In summary, the Episcopal Conference of Congo has strongly refuted accusations made by Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba regarding the Catholic Church’s supposed role in inciting political discord. The church calls for concrete evidence of such allegations and emphasizes its commitment to community development through a formal agreement with the government. The ongoing dialogue regarding constitutional reforms adds another layer to this complex political landscape, highlighting the tension between the church and state authorities.
Original Source: www.fides.org
