Michel Nkuka Mboladinga Chooses Loyalty Over Money After Viral Patrice Lumumba Statue Act.

DR Congo’s “Living Lumumba” Turns Down $2,000 Offer To Stay At AFCON 2025

In the vibrant chaos of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco, one man stood out not for his goals or skills, but for his unbreakable stillness — and his unshakeable principles.

Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, a devoted supporter of the Democratic Republic of Congo (often called Michel Kuka Mboladinga or “Lumumba Vea”), became an instant global sensation. Dressed sharply and perched on a small pedestal, he remained completely motionless throughout every Leopards match, perfectly mimicking the iconic statue of Patrice Lumumba — DR Congo’s revered independence hero and first Prime Minister — in Kinshasa.

His silent, dignified presence captured hearts worldwide, symbolizing pride, resilience, and remembrance amid the noise of drums, chants, and celebrations. Even as DR Congo advanced to the Round of 16, Mboladinga never cracked — no smiles, no cheers, just pure focus and energy channeled to the team.

But when the Leopards fell in a heartbreaking extra-time defeat to Algeria, ending their tournament run, the story took an even more inspiring turn.

As the team and fans prepared to head home, Mboladinga received a tempting offer: stay in Morocco for the remainder of AFCON 2025 and continue his viral tribute, reportedly paid $2,000 per match (around Ksh 258,000, according to reports from outlets like Pulse Sports and Africa Soccer).

In a world where viral fame often translates to quick cash, many might have jumped at the chance. But Mboladinga refused.

He chose loyalty over money — packing his bags to return home with the national team and fellow supporters, honoring the spirit of the very man he was embodying.

This quiet act of patriotism elevated him from a quirky fan to a true symbol of the tournament. His story reminds us that some things — national pride, historical memory, and integrity — are priceless.

In an era of fleeting trends, Michel Nkuka Mboladinga’s motionless tribute and principled decision stand tall, just like the statue he honored. Long live the spirit of Lumumba, and hats off to a fan who proved that true support doesn’t come with a price tag.

What do you think — would you have taken the offer, or stayed true like Mboladinga? Share your thoughts!