Two opposition Ensemble pour la Republique members of parliament yesterday escaped kidnapping by unknown people in Kinshasa.
They are national deputies Daniel Safu and Germain Mutombo.
Accoring to a statement by another MP of Ensemble (Together for the Republic), Gratien Iracan de Saint-Nicolas, Daniel Safu escaped kidnapping while on his way to his home after going to the hearing at the National Assembly following his remarks allegedly aimed at inciting tribal hatred, while MP Germain Mutombo escaped while driving his kids back from school.
“We bring to the attention of country and the international community that two National Deputies of Together for Republic escaped a kidnapping attempt on the evening of May 05, 2023 by armed elements,” the statement reads.
In the case of Safu, National Deputy managed to escape although four members of his detail were taken to an unknown location.
He was trailed by three motorcycles and three vehicles with elements not otherwise
identified with firearms.
In the case of Mutombo, the assailants armed with guns showed up at his residence, justifying their presence.
They were only disturbed by a security detail that formed in the area to pave way for the passage of the Head of State.
Ensemble has deplored the deterioration of the security climate in the country which has opened opposition officials to harm.
“Appropriate measures to secure and ease the tension that is growing stronger during this
pre-election period must be taken to protect every citizen. Vigilance is required,” said Saint-Nicholas.
