Youssouf Mulumbu, former DR Congo captain, calls for PSG to reconsider its Visit Rwanda partnership amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in DR Congo, where violence has displaced thousands. DR Congo’s foreign minister has also urged the club to end the deal, while the Rwandan government defends it. Mulumbu is backing a petition to cancel the partnership, with significant public support.
Former DR Congo captain Youssouf Mulumbu has urged Paris St-Germain (PSG) to reconsider their partnership with Visit Rwanda in light of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in his home country. The conflict, allegedly supported by Rwanda, has led to over 700,000 individuals displaced this year alone. The situation in Goma has been dire, with costly battles resulting in numerous lives lost and serious human rights violations reported.
Mulumbu expressed deep concern for the safety of those living in Goma, citing fear among the population, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and women. He noted the dire situation family members face, as some have lost loved ones amidst the violence. The former footballer emphasized that the ongoing conflict predominantly stems from financial motives rather than territorial disputes.
DR Congo’s Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, has called on PSG to terminate its “blood-stained” agreement with Visit Rwanda, which began in 2019, alongside similar requests directed at clubs such as Arsenal and Bayern Munich. In contrast, the Rwandan government has defended the partnership, asserting its contributions to the nation’s economy through tourism-related employment and increased revenue.
Mulumbu, who began his career at PSG, is actively supporting a petition initiated by fans aimed at garnering 100,000 signatures for the termination of the Visit Rwanda deal. As of the latest update, approximately 68,500 individuals have signed the petition. He believes that by informing club officials about the implications of the partnership with Visit Rwanda, a significant change may be achieved.
Youssouf Mulumbu’s appeal to PSG to reconsider its partnership with Visit Rwanda highlights grave humanitarian issues in DR Congo. With escalating violence leading to widespread suffering, he aims to raise awareness and prompt clubs to sever ties with sources benefiting from or associated with conflict. The ongoing petition reflects the urgency of this cause as it garners significant public support.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
