Christian Malanga, a self-proclaimed opposition figure with a checkered past, led a brazen attack on Congo's presiddential palace, resulting in six deaths and numerous arrests, including three Americans.
In the aftermath of a daring weekend attack on Congo's presidential palace, authorities have unveiled a startling tale involving an eccentric opposition leader, Christian Malanga, who rallied an unlikely group of individuals, including three Americans, in his audacious attempt to overthrow the government.
Malanga's journey from gold mining and car dealing to plotting a coup was met with shock and disbelief. Officials described him as a charismatic figure who persuaded his Utah-born son, Marcel, to join in the ill-fated plot.Tragically, Malanga was killed in a shootout with presidential guards, a grim end to his ambitious aspirations.
The attack, which also targeted the residence of a close ally of President Felix Tshisekedi, claimed the lives of six people, including Malanga, and led to the arrest of dozens. Congolese army spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge, noted that "the situation is under control" following the swift response of security forces.
Authorities are delving into the perplexing path that led Marcel Malanga, a young football player, to become entangled in a coup attempt against the leader of one of Africa's largest nations. Marcel's mother, Brittney Sawyer, vehemently defended her son's innocence, stating that he was merely following his father's lead.
Social media posts showcased Marcel's aspirations, displaying him posing with stacks of cash and discussing women. In contrast, his father, Christian Malanga, presented himself on his website as a successful refugee who rose to prominence in the U.S. However, court records and interviews paint a more complex picture.
Malanga's legal history in Utah include convictions for assault with a firearm, domestic violence, and other charges. Despite such concerns, Malanga proclaimed himself the organizer of the United Congolese Party and president of the "New Zaire" government in exile.
His aspirations of power in Congo were met with skepticism, leading to suspicions that he was involved in a plot to assassinate former President Joseph Kabila. Independent researcher Dino Mahtani speculated that Malanga may have been set up or betrayed in the weekend attack, considering its implausible nature.
The alleged coup attempt began at the Kinshasa residence of Vital Kamerhe, a federal legislator and candidate for speaker of the National Assembly of Congo. His guards successfully repelled the attackers. Meanwhile, Malanga live-streamed video from the presidential palace, depicting himself surrounded by armed individuals. However, he was later killed while resisting arrest.
Congolese officials remain perplexed by the attackers' ability to infiltrate the palace. As authorities continue their investigation, the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa has confirmed the involvement of U.S. citizens, pledging cooperation with authorities in investigating the "violent criminal acts."
