Didier Budimbu: “Greenpeace’s position is not more important than the expectations of 100 million Congolese”
The demands of Greenpeace and other international NGOs who are campaigning for the cancellation of the Congolese government’s allocation of the right to exploit Hydrocarbons are no more important than the expectations of more than 100 million Congolese who want to see their situation be changed through political action, said Congolese Minister of Hydrocarbons, Didier Budimbu.
During a press conference held on Tuesday July 26, 2022, Minister Didier Budimbu denounced “a campaign of sabotage” of the Government’s efforts to mobilize its natural resources in order to improve the living conditions of its citizens.
“I think 100,000 signatures against 100 million people, the choice is clear. The option we have taken is that of being able to improve the daily lives of Congolese through its economy. So, I think 100,000 signatures, yes that’s good, but there are 100 million Congolese who are waiting for the fallout so that they can have it on their plates. So I think the answer is pretty clear. “, Hammered Didier Budimbu.
According to him, an NGO cannot dictate to a government what to do.
“Also, we know that one or more NGOs cannot dictate to a sovereign country what to do. I think that at the presidency, surely they have received this but the option has already been taken and we will continue”.
After having sent a letter to the various oil companies in the world not to respond to the appeal of the Congolese Government, Greenpeace Africa filed, on Monday July 25, 2022, at the Presidency of the Republic, a petition of more than 100,000 signatures. .
In this petition, Greenpeace Africa recommends to Félix Tshisekedi to abandon the auction of 27 oil blocks and 3 gas located in Lake Kivu.
This position of international NGOs remains criticized by the Congolese government. He believes that these international NGOs do not condemn the actions of armed groups in the various national parks which endanger several animal species.
