A video recorded by a passenger at Bipemba Airport in Mbuji-Mayi, a key city in Kasai-Oriental province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has sparked fresh public frustration over infrastructure gaps and governance priorities under President Félix Tshisekedi’s government.
The footage shows airport workers pushing passenger luggage on a manual cart — a scene that many viewers say highlights a troubling disconnect between public revenue collection and actual service delivery on the ground.
The passenger who recorded the video expressed disbelief that, after more than a decade of collecting Go-pass fees from travelers, such basic airport operations remain unchanged.
The Go-pass fee was introduced to support airport modernization and improve passenger experience across the country.
Yet at Bipemba Airport, luggage handling still relies on human effort rather than mechanized systems.
“This video really disturbed me,” the passenger said, reacting to what they witnessed. “After more than a decade of Go-pass fees, passengers’ luggage is still transported by a cart pushed by human strength.”
Beyond frustration, the passenger described the situation as an embarrassment and a clear indicator of a dysfunctional state, arguing that such conditions should not persist after years of public revenue collection meant to modernize infrastructure.
The criticism quickly widened beyond the airport, raising concerns about accountability among political leaders and tax authorities.
“Political authorities and VAT officials, doesn’t this situation bother you?” the passenger asked, questioning how funds collected over the years have translated into visible improvements.
The video has since become a symbol of broader dissatisfaction, especially as national political debates intensify.
In a pointed remark, the passenger linked the situation to ongoing discussions about constitutional changes and political continuity.
“With this, you want to change the Constitution to stay in power? NO.”
The comment reflects growing frustration among some citizens who feel governance priorities are misaligned, with insufficient attention given to basic public services despite sustained revenue streams.
So far, no official response has been issued regarding conditions at Bipemba Airport.
However, the video has added momentum to ongoing conversations about infrastructure investment, transparency, and whether public funds are delivering meaningful improvements.
For many, the footage is more than just a moment captured on camera.
It is a reflection of deeper concerns about governance — and a question about whether everyday realities match the promises made at the top.