Investigation Underway After Lumumba Mausoleum Vandalism

The mausoleum of Patrice Lumumba, Congo's first democratically elected prime minister, has been vandalized, leading to an investigation by authorities. Lumumba's only known remains, a single gold-capped tooth, were reportedly missing from its casket following the break-in. Culture Minister Yolande Elebe has not confirmed whether the tooth was stolen, as the investigation continues. Lumumba's daughter condemned the act as 'despicable', expressing distress over the incident. The tooth was returned to Lumumba's family in 2022 after being kept in Belgium for decades, and its return had been celebrated across Congo. The vandalism raises concerns about the respect for Lumumba's legacy, as he is a significant figure in the nation's history and a symbol of its struggle against colonialism.