Despite the Democratic Republic of Congo’s heartbreaking exit from the Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, one supporter has emerged as one of the tournament’s most enduring and powerful symbols. Michel Kuka Mboladinga, widely known as DR Congo’s “human statue,” captured widespread attention for his striking and solemn presence in the stands.
Distinctively dressed and unwavering, Kuka is known for standing completely motionless throughout matches, gazing skyward with his right arm raised and palm open. The pose, which he has maintained at several games, has become his signature and earned him significant media recognition during the tournament.
On Tuesday, Kuka travelled to Rabat, Morocco, accompanied by a delegation of several hundred Congolese supporters whose trip was sponsored by the government. They filled the stands for DR Congo’s last-16 clash against Algeria, a match the Leopards narrowly lost 1–0 after conceding a late extra-time goal.
Kuka’s gesture is inspired by a statue of Patrice Lumumba, the Congolese independence leader and the country’s first prime minister, which stands in Kinshasa. Lumumba, who briefly held office in 1960, was assassinated the following year by separatists from Katanga and Belgian mercenaries. His body was later dissolved in acid, making his killing one of the darkest chapters in the history between Belgium and its former colony.
Congolese fans at the tournament expressed pride in Kuka’s tribute. Speaking in Casablanca ahead of the Algeria match, supporter Laetitia Malula described him as “our brother,” noting that his imitation of Lumumba honours a national hero whose legacy still resonates deeply with the Congolese people.
DR Congo’s participation in the tournament has unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the country, where fighting has intensified since 2021 following the resurgence of the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group.
Although Kuka declined to speak publicly during the competition, reportedly stepping back due to intense media attention, fellow supporters say his message is clear. Jered Bitobo, communications head of the supporters’ group to which Kuka belongs, said the raised open palm symbolises peace.
“He is sending a strong message, both locally and internationally,” Bitobo explained. “The open palm is a sign of peace, and peace is what our country needs.”
It is understood that Kuka first adopted the symbolic pose several years ago during matches involving AS Vita Club, one of DR Congo’s leading football teams.
