The Democratic Republic of Congo has earmarked a budget of $6 million to commemorate the first anniversary of President Felix Tshisekedi in power.
Critics and the opposition have expressed concern at the decision of the government to spend a considerable amount of money for an anniversary ceremony in such ‘difficult times.’
Government has defended the move saying that the country must celebrate a democratic and peaceful alternation of power after the Joseph Kabila era.
“This is a comedy and madness,” said former prime minister and leader of the Lamuka opposition party, Adolphe Muzito.
The spokesperson for Moïse Katumbi, Olivier Kamitatu also denounced the move, calling it ”mismanagement of public resources in the face of unending challenges of the country.”
Interestingly, in spite of the criticisms, the event is scheduled for 24 January in the capital Kinshasa. The date was fixed on purpose to coincide with the day former president Joseph Kabila handed over office to President Felix Tshisekedi.
The development is coming a week after the members of parliament in DR Congo approved a budget of $11.5 billion budget for the year 2020.
Critics have continued to question the actions of the government, especially about expenses considering reports that the majority of citizens in the country live on less than $2 a day.
Many people are still of the opinion that President Felix Tshisekedi had an agreement with Joseph Kabila before the elections for a power-sharing formula in return for political support.
The BB reported on 10 January, 2019 that the announcement, made overnight, sparked accusations of an “electoral coup” from runner-up Martin Fayulu.
The Catholic Church said that the result did not match data collected by its election monitors.
The ruling party, whose candidate finished third, has not yet contested the result, prompting allegations of a power-sharing deal with Mr Tshisekedi.
It is an accusation Mr Tshisekedi’s team denies.
If confirmed, Mr Tshisekedi will be the first opposition challenger to win since DR Congo gained independence in 1960. Current President Joseph Kabila is stepping down after 18 years in office.
