Congo politician beaten to death after urging Ebola prevention on radio, his party says

A senior Congolese politician, Marie-Celestin Karondwa, was brutally murdered after attempting to raise awareness about the Ebola outbreak on a radio program, according to his political party. The horrific incident occurred in Butembo, North Kivu province, a region grappling with a recent surge in Ebola cases. Karondwa, who served as the acting president of the UDPS party's federal executive committee and a spokesperson for the party, was targeted by local residents during his appearance on the radio show, where he advocated for preventive measures against the deadly virus.

The UDPS federation in Butembo claimed that Karondwa was an innocent victim who had merely defended the party's stance on the Ebola threat. The attackers not only physically assaulted him but also looted his possessions and set his home ablaze. The motive behind the heinous act remains unclear, though the party emphasized that Karondwa was merely exercising his right to voice concerns about the virus and its potential impact on the population.

Tragically, Karondwa succumbed to his injuries shortly after the attack. The mayor of Butembo had not yet provided a comment on the matter. This latest attack on an Ebola response team further highlights the widespread skepticism and distrust that exists within the community. On the same day as Karondwa's murder, armed assailants targeted a handwashing checkpoint near Beni territory, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.

The Ebola outbreak, which was officially declared on May 15, has already claimed the lives of 3,901 individuals and infected a total of 8,067 people in Congo.