What did Michel Nkuka do during the Africa Cup 2025?

Michel Nkuka stood motionless throughout the matches, imitating the pose of the Patrice Lumumba memorial to honor the late leader.

Why is Michel Nkuka called 'Living Lumumba'?

He is referred to as 'Living Lumumba' because he symbolizes the spirit of Patrice Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, known for his fight for independence.

What is the historical significance of Patrice Lumumba?

Patrice Lumumba is recognized for his resistance against Belgian colonial rule and was assassinated in 1961, making him a symbol of freedom and sacrifice in Congo.

How does Nkuka prepare for his role during matches?

Nkuka practices remaining still for 45-50 minutes before each match, which becomes more difficult during extra time and penalty shootouts.

What message does Nkuka aim to convey through his actions?

Nkuka seeks to provide strength and energy to the team while honoring Lumumba's legacy of freedom and sacrifice.

Have the players acknowledged Nkuka's efforts?

While Nkuka has not personally met the players, he believes they value his support and dedication.

Africa Cup 2025: Fan Honors Patrice Lumumba with Unique Tribute

During the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, one fan captured the spotlight not just for his enthusiasm but for a unique tribute: he remained motionless throughout the match, mimicking the pose of the PatriceLumumba memorial located in Kinshasa.

Michel Nkuka Mbouladinga, known in the media as "Living Lumumba", became a prominent figure in the tournament by using this method to honor Patrice Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo who was assassinated in 1961.

Nkuka raises his right arm and remains still like a living statue during matches, even when his team scores, contrasting sharply with the animated fans around him.

Lumumba is historically significant for his fight against Belgian colonialism and was brutally killed:

Just four days after his assassination, his body was dismembered and dissolved in acid.

A former Belgian police officer, Gerard Soet, revealed in a 1999 interview that he was assigned to dispose of Lumumba's body and kept one of his teeth as a memento for years.

In a symbolic act, Belgium returned Lumumba's only remaining tooth to his family in 2022.

In a statement to the Associated Press, Nkuka explained:

"I remain still to give the team strength and energy. Everyone plays their role, and I play mine."

Nkuka trains before each match to maintain his stillness for 45-50 minutes, making it particularly challenging during extra time and penalty kicks.

Despite the physical demands and media attention, Nkuka feels a deep sense of pride in representing Lumumba’s spirit and providing moral support to the team.

He stated: "He is the one who gave us the freedom to express ourselves, sacrificed his life for our liberty, and he is a role model and a family member."

Although Nkuka has yet to meet the players personally, he believes they recognize and appreciate his dedication and support, embodying the courage and sacrifice that Lumumba represents.