Mobutu Sese Seko

Date of Birth: October 14, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: September 7, 1997

Biography

Mobutu Sese Seko, born Joseph-Désiré Mobutu, was a Congolese politician and military officer who became the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo) from 1965 to 1997. Mobutu was born on October 14, 1930, in Lisala, a town in the northwestern part of the Belgian Congo. He joined the Force Publique, the colonial army, and quickly rose through the ranks due to his discipline and intelligence. After the Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960, Mobutu played a crucial role in the political turmoil that ensued. He led a coup in 1965, overthrowing President Joseph Kasa-Vubu and establishing a one-party state. Mobutu adopted the name Mobutu Sese Seko Kuku Ngbendu wa za Banga, which means “the all-powerful warrior who goes from conquest to conquest, leaving fire in his wake.” He established a totalitarian regime, suppressing political opposition, and promoting a cult of personality. Mobutu was known for his elaborate attire, often donning a leopard-skin hat and a walking stick. His rule was marked by widespread corruption, human rights violations, and economic mismanagement, although he maintained strong ties with Western powers during the Cold War, who saw him as a bulwark against communism in Africa. In the 1990s, Mobutu’s grip on power began to weaken due to mounting internal dissent and external pressures. He was eventually overthrown by Laurent-Désiré Kabila in 1997 and fled the country. Mobutu lived in exile in Morocco, where he died on September 7, 1997, from prostate cancer.

5 Interesting Facts about Mobutu Sese Seko

1. Mobutu renamed the country Zaire in 1971 as part of his authenticité campaign to promote African culture and identity.

2. He amassed a personal fortune estimated to be between $4 billion and $15 billion through embezzlement and corruption.

3. Mobutu was known for his extravagant lifestyle, including owning multiple palaces and a private jet.

4. He maintained close relationships with several U.S. Presidents, including Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan.

5. Mobutu’s regime was marked by severe human rights abuses, including the suppression of political opponents and ethnic minorities.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mobutu Sese Seko

1. “If you steal, do not steal too much at a time. You may be arrested. Steal cleverly, little by little.”

2. “A chicken is always right in its own coop.”

3. “We must have order. Without order, there is anarchy.”

4. “In our African tradition, we don’t have elections. We have consensus.”

5. “I will remain in power for the next 50 years if necessary.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his power, Mobutu Sese Seko’s net worth was estimated to be between $4 billion and $15 billion.

Children

Mobutu Sese Seko had several children. Some of his notable children include: 1. Nzanga Mobutu, who pursued a career in politics and has served as a Minister in the Congolese government. 2. Kongulu Mobutu, also known as “Saddam Hussein,” who was involved in the military and known for his aggressive and controversial behavior. 3. Albertine Mobutu, who lived a more private life away from the political scene.