A video-taped statement circulating on social media has brought renewed attention to a declaration attributed to the Mouvement Début Katanga pour la Libération du Congo (MDKC), a group claiming to represent interests in the Katanga region.
In the footage, individuals identifying themselves as members of the movement repeat strong accusations against the government of Félix Tshisekedi and call for his removal from power, including by force.
The statement, reportedly signed in Katanga on February 21, 2026, portrays the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as “a multifaceted crisis” and alleges “a return to bloody tyranny” since Tshisekedi assumed office following the country’s first peaceful transfer of power in 2019.
The emergence of the video has amplified the message beyond written circulation, drawing attention across online platforms.
In the recording, the group accuses the government of widespread constitutional violations, stating that there have been “arbitrary arrests, unlawful detentions and targeted assassinations” of political figures, religious leaders and military personnel, particularly those originating from eastern regions and Katanga.
The speakers also allege “targeted killings of Swahiliphone populations” in cities such as Lubumbashi, Likasi, Kasumbalesa, Kolwezi and Kilwa.
Referring to specific incidents, the group claims that “massacres were carried out in Bukama on January 12 and February 14, 2026,” and denounces what it describes as “criminal arrests of youth and minors in Tumwe on February 18, 2026.” These allegations remain unverified.
The video further asserts that militias linked to the ruling party, the Union for Democracy and Social Progress, described by the speakers as “forces of progress,” have been incorporated into national armed forces and are responsible for some of the alleged abuses.
Beyond security concerns, the speakers accuse President Tshisekedi and his associates of corruption and mismanagement, alleging “massive embezzlement of public funds, tribalism and systematic looting of the country’s resources, particularly those of Katanga.”
They claim that such practices have left local populations “reduced to conditions of exploitation.”
Citing Article 64 of the Congolese Constitution, the movement declares its intention to end the current leadership “by all lawful means, including force,” adding that this is necessary “to save Katanga and the Congo.”
In the video, the group calls on members of the armed forces and civilians alike to join the effort, urging them “to rise without fear and join the movement for liberation.”
There has been no immediate official response from the Congolese government.
Analysts note that the spread of such messages on social media reflects ongoing tensions in parts of the country, where political grievances, security challenges and regional dynamics continue to contribute to instability.
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