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October 02, 2024 – Congo –
Catholic journalist Edmond Bahati Mbarushimana, also known as Edmond Bahle Monja, was murdered in the Ndosho district of Goma, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. He served as the coordinator for Radio Maria Goma, a Catholic radio station, and was shot at close range while returning home from work. His killing shocked both the local community and the wider Catholic press network, drawing international condemnation.
Authorities announced the arrest of 35 individuals linked to the crime. Among those detained was a man who reportedly admitted to being paid just five U.S. dollars to carry out the murder. The small sum provoked outrage, underscoring the fragility of life in a region plagued by violence and instability. Both church leaders and rights groups have called for clarity, stressing that justice must be served and those responsible prosecuted to the fullest extent.
At his funeral Mass on October 1, Bishop Willy Ngumbi Ngengele of Goma described Mbarushimana as “a man of peace,” praising his humility, dedication, and commitment to both his faith and his journalistic mission. His colleagues at Radio Maria echoed these words, remembering him as a hardworking coordinator who gave his energy to the station, to his peers, and to the community he sought to uplift through his work. The loss of such a voice has left a painful void within the Catholic media in Congo.
The tragedy drew international attention. UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay condemned the killing and urged Congolese authorities to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation. The call for accountability comes amid ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, where armed groups such as the M23 rebels contribute to instability that often leaves journalists and civilians exposed to deadly risks.
Mbarushimana’s murder reflects the perilous reality faced by reporters in fragile states, where attacks on the press are rarely investigated and perpetrators often enjoy impunity. His death has become a rallying point for those demanding greater protection for journalists and recognition of their essential role in promoting peace and accountability. The memory of his dedication endures as both an inspiration and a call to action.
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