DR Congo activist Michel Kuka denied US visa during World Cup protests

Michel Kuka Mboladinga, a Congolese fan known as “Lumumba Vive,” has turned each Democratic Republic of Congo match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup into a silent protest. He stands motionless in the team’s bench area, mimicking the image of independence leader Patrice Lumumba to draw attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC. During the group‑stage game against Colombia in Guadalajara, he covered his mouth and mimed an armed headshot, a gesture that was repeatedly shown by FIFA before the broadcast cut away.

Kuka’s activism was halted when U.S. authorities refused him a visa, preventing his travel to the round‑of‑16 match against Uzbekistan in Atlanta. The denial sparked diplomatic outreach by the Congolese ambassador in Washington. Meanwhile, the DRC celebrated its historic first World Cup qualification, with thousands taking to the streets to chant, wave flags, and echo Lumumba’s salute. The protest and visa refusal highlight the intersection of sport, politics, and the country’s unresolved conflict.