Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi is under increasing scrutiny following allegations that a £1.66 million ($2.2 million) bridge project is linked to a construction company associated with a family member. The claim originated from a viral post on X, which has since gained traction across social media, igniting debates about transparency, procurement processes, and potential conflicts of interest involving the President’s family.
The allegations surfaced alongside a video shared by the account Africa Today, known for its political commentary. The footage purportedly shows the bridge collapsing on the day of its inauguration, raising serious concerns about the project’s quality and execution. While the video has elicited strong reactions, the details surrounding the project, including its cost and contractor, remain unverified by major news organizations.
The initial claims suggest that a company linked to one of Tshisekedi’s relatives was awarded the £1.66 million ($2.2 million) contract. Social media users quickly expressed skepticism, questioning the legitimacy of the project’s cost and the awarding process. Comments ranged from disbelief at the high price to accusations of nepotism and improper tender procedures.
Critics are calling for investigations into the project, particularly regarding whether it followed necessary competitive bidding practices. Amid the uproar, government officials have yet to address the allegations or provide clarity on the project’s legitimacy. No public documents, procurement records, or contractor listings have been made available to substantiate or refute the claims connecting the project to the President’s family.
The controversy reflects a broader issue within the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where infrastructure projects often attract skepticism regarding their funding and management. Citizens have a history of questioning the efficiency of state resources allocated for public works like bridges and roads.
In November, international media, including Al Jazeera, reported a separate bridge collapse in Lualaba province, which involved a makeshift structure built by miners and was not related to state projects. This incident underscores the potential for infrastructure failures to escalate into national controversies.
Despite the ongoing debate, no official documents confirming ownership or procurement of the £1.66 million ($2.2 million) bridge have been released. The lack of verified information continues to fuel public interest and speculation. As citizens await further clarification, the situation highlights the need for greater transparency in government-funded infrastructure initiatives in the Congo.
The outcome of this controversy remains uncertain, but it epitomizes the challenges faced by Tshisekedi’s administration as it seeks to improve transport links and address the longstanding issues of public spending in the country.
