Congolese Politician Killed After Defending Ebola Response

A local politician in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has died after being beaten at his home and having the house set on fire, days after he publicly supported the government’s Ebola response.

Marie-Célestin Karondwa, an official with the ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), was attacked on Sunday, September 27, in Butembo, North Kivu province. The party said he had appeared on a radio program to raise awareness about Ebola and encourage people to follow prevention measures. He later died from his injuries at a local hospital, according to the party and the Associated Press.

Karondwa’s granddaughter told AP that the attackers beat him and then set the house alight. The party said his belongings were also taken.

The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear. Reuters reported that it was not immediately known who carried it out, how many people were involved or what motivated them. Karondwa’s party said he was targeted for defending its position that Ebola exists and poses a threat to the public. That account has not been independently confirmed.

Ebola response faces mistrust and resistance

The killing comes as health officials try to contain a severe Ebola outbreak in the country. At the time of AP’s report, the outbreak had recorded more than 8,000 cases and nearly 4,000 deaths. Government figures reported separately on October 2 put the death toll above 4,000.

Butembo, where Karondwa was attacked, is one of the areas affected by the outbreak. Health workers say misinformation and public distrust have made it harder to encourage people to report symptoms and cooperate with response teams.

Authorities have introduced a village-centered approach, aiming to involve local communities in Ebola prevention and response. Karondwa had urged people to follow measures including handwashing and social distancing, according to AP.

The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. The World Health Organization says there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for this strain, while research into potential options is ongoing. Early reporting, infection-control measures and access to care remain important parts of the response.

Attacks add to the challenges for responders

Karondwa’s death follows other attacks on health workers and Ebola response teams in eastern Congo. The region is also affected by longstanding insecurity and conflict, which can limit access to health services and make it harder for responders to reach communities.

The killing has drawn attention to the risks faced by people who communicate public-health guidance during an outbreak. It also highlights the need for authorities and health organizations to address local concerns and build trust while continuing efforts to slow the disease.

BBNN will update this report if authorities provide further information about the investigation.