Patrice Lumumba: 100 Years On
Patrice Lumumba: 100 Years On
Today marks 100 years since the birth of Patrice Lumumba – the man who defied colonial powers and paid with his life.
His story remains one of Africa’s greatest tragedies and inspirations
◾Born on July 2, 1925, Lumumba rose from being a postal clerk to becoming Congo’s first Prime Minister. In 1958, he founded the Mouvement National Congolais (MNC) to unite the nation against Belgian rule. His vision: a free and united Congo.
◾In 1960, he delivered his famous independence speech that shook the world. At just 35, he became head of government, fighting for unity amid an army mutiny and the secession of Katanga.
◾When the UN refused support, Lumumba turned to the USSR, escalating tensions with President Joseph Kasa-Vubu. By September 1960, he was dismissed from office.
◾On January 17, 1961, Lumumba was assassinated in Katanga with Belgian complicity. His death remains one of the darkest chapters in Africa’s fight against colonialism.
◾Today, his mausoleum stands in Kinshasa as a reminder of his sacrifice. Patrice Lumumba remains a pan-African icon – a symbol of unity, sovereignty, and freedom.
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