A well-known Congolese artist, Delphin Katembo Vinywasiki, popularly known as Delcat Idengo, has been killed in Goma, a city currently under the control of M23 rebels. His body was discovered on Thursday, lying in the street with visible injuries, including blood partially covering his head. Though the exact circumstances remain unclear, unconfirmed reports indicate he was shot.
Idengo, who was known for his critical stance against all factions involved in the ongoing conflict, had recently released a song condemning the rebel occupation of Goma. His death has sparked widespread outrage, particularly as he was among the prisoners who escaped from a Goma jail last month when the M23 took over the city.
Authorities have yet to determine who was responsible for Idengo’s killing. The Congolese government has pointed fingers at the M23 rebels, calling the act “abominable.” Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya assured the public that “justice will be done.” However, the M23 has denied any involvement, instead blaming government-aligned forces and demanding they surrender their weapons.
The killing comes at a time of escalating violence in eastern DR Congo, where armed groups are locked in fierce battles with the national army for control of the resource-rich region. The M23’s recent capture of Goma in late January marked a significant turning point in the conflict. According to UN figures, approximately 2,900 people have been killed in recent months, while around 700,000 have been displaced from their homes.
Meanwhile, the rebels are reportedly advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, despite regional peace initiatives aimed at de-escalating the situation.
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News of Idengo’s death has sent shockwaves through North Kivu. Protests erupted in Beni, his hometown, as residents took to the streets demanding accountability. Social media videos showed his lifeless body lying in the Kilijiwe area, where he had been filming a music video. Witnesses say he was dressed in military-style trousers at the time of the attack and died instantly.
The Congolese Ministry of Arts and Culture condemned the incident, referring to it as an “assassination” and acknowledging Idengo’s contributions to society. “A committed voice, he carried, through his music, the aspirations and hopes of an entire generation,” the ministry stated.
Idengo was no stranger to political controversy. He had previously been imprisoned on charges of inciting violence, particularly for urging people to force UN peacekeepers out of DR Congo. In 2021, he was also prosecuted for allegedly insulting President Félix Tshisekedi and spreading “false rumors” in a song where he criticized the government’s failure to meet its promises. Although he was initially sentenced to 10 years, he was later acquitted.
Prominent political figures have expressed their grief over his death. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu, who placed third in the 2023 general election, described Idengo as a patriot. “The nation has lost a patriot committed to national cohesion. I mourn the loss of Idengo. It is high time for this war to end. Humanity above all!” Fayulu wrote on social media.
Another opposition figure, Moïse Katumbi, who finished second in the election, also condemned the killing. “His murderers, whoever they are, must be quickly identified and very severely condemned,” he posted.
