DR Congo singer killed filming music video in war-torn Goma

A popular Congolese musician, Delphin Katembo Vinywasiki, also known as Delcat Idengo, was killed while filming a music video in Goma, a city overtaken by M23 militants. His body was discovered on Thursday in the street, with blood partially covering his head. Although unverified reports suggest he was shot, the exact cause of death remains unclear.

Idengo, who was vocal in criticizing all factions involved in the ongoing conflict, had recently escaped from a prison in Goma following the militants' seizure of the city. The eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to be embroiled in violent clashes as armed groups and the military vie for control of the mineral-rich area.

The identity of those responsible for the killing of Delphin Katembo Vinywasiki, known as Delcat Idengo, remains unclear. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya condemned the musician's death as an "abominable act" on X, holding the M23 rebels accountable. However, the M23 has accused government-aligned forces of the killing and urged them to surrender their weapons.

This tragic incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region following the M23's capture of Goma in late January, escalating the ongoing conflict. According to recent UN reports, nearly 2,900 people have been killed, and approximately 700,000 others have been displaced due to the fighting.

The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has seen various armed groups, including the M23, clash with government forces over control of the mineral-rich eastern region. Despite peace efforts, the rebels are now advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, further intensifying the violence.

Idengo's death has sparked protests in Beni, his hometown, where demonstrators are demanding justice. Social media videos captured the musician's lifeless body on the ground after the attack in Goma's Kilijiwe area. Witnesses said that Idengo, dressed in military-style pants for the music video, was killed instantly.

The Congolese Ministry of Arts and Culture labeled the incident as an "assassination," mourning the loss of a musician who, through his music, voiced the hopes and aspirations of an entire generation. Idengo had been in legal trouble, facing charges last year for inciting violence against UN peacekeepers and spreading false rumors in a song that criticized President Félix Tshisekedi. Although sentenced to 10 years, he was acquitted later.

Opposition leaders have also expressed grief over Idengo's death. Martin Fayulu, who came third in the 2023 presidential election, called it a loss for national cohesion and stressed the urgency of ending the war. Moïse Katumbi, who finished second in the election, also condemned the killing, demanding that those responsible be swiftly identified and severely punished.