Press release from the Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship following the acts of vandalism at Martyrs Stadium, Tuesday September 9, 2025

The Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship notes with regret the incidents that occurred at the Martyrs’ Stadium following the match between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Senegal in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

While our nation, united behind its national team, was expecting a sporting celebration, the unfavorable outcome of the match was followed by acts of vandalism that severely damaged the stadium’s facilities—a public asset and symbol of our collective history.

The Ministry condemns in the strongest terms this behavior, which runs counter to the values of civic responsibility and respect for the common good. It expresses its gratitude to all citizens who demonstrated restraint and sportsmanship despite the collective disappointment.

This incident serves as a reminder of the need for everyone to embody the principles of New Citizenship, in particular:

1. protection of the common good;
2. accepting setbacks with dignity, including in sports;
3. preserving our achievements for future generations.

Public infrastructure—schools, roads, hospitals, stadiums—is the result of a collective effort. To destroy it is to weaken our future; to respect and protect it is to love and serve the Republic.

As part of the “Active Citizenship” campaign, the Ministry invites the entire Congolese population to embrace the Citizen’s Oath and make it a way of life:

“I swear to serve, in all circumstances, with fidelity and loyalty, the Democratic Republic of the Congo; to love and respect my fellow citizens; to protect the common good; and to promote national unity and brotherhood.”

Together, through civic engagement and shared responsibility, let us build a stronger, more united, and prosperous nation.

Communications Unit