DR Congo Politician Dies After Ebola Awareness Radio Appearance

A senior member of the Democratic Republic of Congo's ruling party has died after being attacked following a radio appearance in which he promoted awareness about the country's Ebola outbreak.

Marie-Celestin Karondwa, an official of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), was attacked on Sunday in Butembo, North Kivu province, according to his party. He later died from injuries sustained in the assault.

Attack Followed Ebola Awareness Broadcast

Karondwa had participated in a radio programme focused on Ebola prevention before the attack.

The UDPS federation in Butembo said he was assaulted by residents of his neighbourhood after returning from the programme. The party said his belongings were stolen and his house was set on fire.

The identity of those responsible and the precise motive for the attack have not been independently established. The party said Karondwa was targeted because of his public support for Ebola prevention efforts.

Mistrust Complicates Ebola Response

The killing comes amid concerns about mistrust, misinformation and resistance to the public-health response in parts of the DRC.

Health workers and treatment facilities have faced attacks during the outbreak, creating additional challenges for authorities and humanitarian organisations trying to identify cases and provide care.

The World Health Organization has reported that the outbreak has expanded to 63 health zones across seven provinces, underlining the continuing geographic spread of the disease.

Ebola Cases Pass 8,000

The DRC's current outbreak was declared on May 15, 2026, and is caused by the Bundibugyo virus.

According to the latest data from the country's public health authorities, there were 8,067 confirmed cases and 3,901 deaths as of September 26. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported the same figures based on DRC health data.

The outbreak has now become the largest and deadliest Ebola outbreak recorded in the DRC, surpassing the country's 2018–2020 epidemic.

Calls for Calm and Greater Awareness

Karondwa's death has added to concerns about the difficulties facing health authorities as they attempt to contain the outbreak.

Public-health agencies have stressed the importance of accurate information, early detection and access to medical care, while authorities and community organisations continue efforts to build public trust.

The circumstances surrounding Karondwa's death remain under investigation, while his party has called attention to the risks faced by people involved in Ebola awareness efforts.