Popular Congolese musician Delphin Katembo Vinywasiki, known as Delcat Idengo, was found dead in the streets of Goma, eastern DR Congo, on Thursday. The revolutionary artist, known for his songs criticizing both the government and rebel forces, was reportedly shot while filming a music video.
Idengo, who had previously escaped from prison after M23 rebels seized Goma last month, had recently released a song condemning the rebel occupation. His death has sparked protests in North Kivu, with demonstrators demanding justice.
Authorities blame M23 for the killing, while the rebels accuse government-aligned forces. The Congolese Ministry of Arts and Culture has described the incident as an “assassination,” mourning the loss of a musician who voiced the struggles of his people.
The killing comes amid escalating violence in DR Congo, where thousands have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced due to ongoing clashes between armed groups and government forces.