A well-known musician in the Democratic Republic of Congo was fatally shot while filming a music video in the conflict-affected eastern town of Goma.
The remains of Delphin Katembo Vinywasiki, popularly known as Delcat Idengo, were discovered in the street on Thursday with blood partially covering his head. Unverified reports suggest that the artist was shot.
Social media footage displayed the artist’s body on the ground following the incident in the Kilijiwe district, located in northern Goma, with eyewitness reports indicating that Idengo, who was dressed in military pants for the video, succumbed instantly during the assault.
Idengo, renowned for his songs that criticised both the government and the rebels, was among the many prisoners who broke free from a Goma prison after M23 militants took control of the city last month.
The eastern region of DR Congo has been swept up in violence as armed groups and the military clash for dominance over the mineral-rich area.
The musician had recently released a song titled Bunduki (translated as “weapon” in Swahili), denouncing the rebel takeover in Goma.
Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya said on the X platform that “Justice will prevail,” describing the artist’s murder as an “abominable act.” He accused the M23, who also blamed government-aligned forces.
This incident occurs amid rising tensions in the region following the Rwanda-supported M23’s capture of Goma, marking a significant escalation in the conflict since late January.
Recent UN statistics indicate that approximately 2,900 individuals have lost their lives, and around 700,000 others have been displaced due to the ongoing violence.
The rebels are now advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, another significant city in the area, despite regional efforts to resolve the conflict.
Idengo’s assassination has ignited new anxieties in North Kivu, prompting residents to take to the streets in Beni, his birthplace, demanding justice.
