DRC’s Ministry of Justice has ordered the arrest of individuals suspected of embezzling US$10 million intended for an electrification project in Moanda, Kongo-Central province.
In an official communiqué released today, the Minister of Justice gave instructions that legal action be initiated against those allegedly responsible for the misappropriation of the funds.
“The Minister of Justice has instructed authorities to pursue and arrest the presumed perpetrators of this embezzlement,” the statement read.
The funds were meant to improve electricity infrastructure in Moanda, a strategic coastal town in western DRC. However, concerns over institutionalized corruption, incompetence, and a lack of accountability continue to undermine key development projects in the country.
A government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted that corruption has engulfed multiple levels of the state. “The mismanagement of public resources has become systemic. We are dealing with a deep-rooted problem where impunity reigns, and projects meant to serve the people are used for personal enrichment,” the source said.
These latest revelations come as President Félix Tshisekedi himself faces serious accusations of misappropriating over US$2 billion in what critics describe as a shameful and wasteful spending on a useless war against the M23 movement.
Allegations surfaced earlier today, fueling speculation that the Congolese leadership can not account for alleged military spending because most the army is deprived of basic supplies and salaries.
“Everyone is stealing because they are motivated by the head of the state himself. He has no moral authority to hold anyone accountable,” the source said.
While the justice ministry’s move to prosecute corrupt officials may appear as an effort to restore credibility, many observers remain skeptical.
“Until we see high-profile convictions and actual recoveries of stolen funds, these pronouncements will remain mere political theater,” said a Kinshasa-based analyst.
With public trust in institutions dwindling and international pressure mounting, the DRC government faces increasing scrutiny over its failure to uphold transparency and accountability.