This archive report was first published on 30 June 2020.
June 30, 2020 - The Democratic Republic of Congo is today marking 60 years since its independence from Belgium in 1960.
However, this year's celebration is a subdued affair, with President Félix Tshisekedi diverting funds meant for festivities towards the fight against COVID-19.
Speaking on state television on Monday, Tshisekedi announced that the funds would be used to motivate soldiers involved in the pacification effort in the eastern part of the country and health personnel engaged in the fight against COVID-19.
He also announced that Joseph Kasavubu, the country's first independent president, would be elevated to the rank of national hero, and a town would be named after him.
The town, Lumumbaville, in the province of Sankuru, will be a tribute to the former Prime Minister, who was assassinated in 1961 in Haut-Katanga.
"It is right to raise Joseph Kasavubu, long forgotten, to the deserved rank of national hero," said Tshisekedi during his 45-minute-long speech.
DR Congo now has three national heroes: Patrice Emery Lumumba, Laurent-Désiré Kabila, and Joseph Kasavubu.
President Tshisekedi also used the occasion to reject proposed changes to the country's justice system, describing the Congolese political class as "versatile".
He further promised to be uncompromising in the fight against corruption.
