Floribert Bwana Chui, a young Catholic who was martyred in 2007 for refusing to bow to corruption, will soon be declared a saint by the Vatican.
Floribert Bwana Chui Bin Kositi, a young Catholic killed in 2007 in Goma for his refusal to bow to corruption, continues to leave a lasting impression. Seventeen years after his martyrdom, the Vatican has announced that he will soon be proclaimed a saint, praising his commitment to honesty and justice. For his mother, Kamara Ntawiha Gertrude, this decision is an emotional tribute to her son’s unwavering faith.
A life dedicated to faith and morality
Born on June 13, 1981, Floribert Bwana Chui was the head of office at the Congolese Control Office (OCC) when he refused to yield to pressure. At the age of 26, he opposed the entry of counterfeit rice from Rwanda into the DRC, preferring to protect his fellow citizens’ public health. True to his Christian values, he rejected corruption and refused bribes before being kidnapped and killed under tragic circumstances, with his body bearing the marks of cruel abuse.
The poignant testimony of a grieving mother
Kamara Ntawiha Gertrude, Floribert’s mother, shared her pride and pain at this recognition. “Floribert loved to pray and lived according to God’s word,” she explained. For her, this martyrdom is a call to the youth to follow the example of her son, a model of courage and integrity.
An example celebrated by Pope Francis
Floribert’s sacrifice had already been highlighted by Pope Francis during his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo in February 2023. In front of thousands of young people, he spoke of his dedication as an example of faith and justice. Today, his recognition by the Vatican follows the honoring of other Congolese figures, including Isidore Bakandja, Marie-Clémentine Anuarite, and Albert Joubert.
