Congolese billionaire Moïse Katumbi faces court battle over property dispute

Congolese billionaire Moïse Katumbi is set to face a new development in a long running property dispute with his half-brother, Raphaël Katebe Katoto, as the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Court of Cassation is expected to examine the case on October 26.

The dispute centers on several properties claimed by Katebe, including three residences and two farms. Katumbi’s lawyers have challenged the procedure and questioned the Court of Cassation’s competence to hear the matter.

The defense has also presented documents that it says support Katumbi’s position. One document reportedly identifies Katebe as the seller of a villa on Avenue Lofoi in Lubumbashi, with Katumbi listed as the buyer. Other documents concern properties in Kashobwe and Kalemie.

The case has also taken on a political dimension because the two brothers have adopted opposing positions over President Félix Tshisekedi’s political future. Katebe has supported Tshisekedi remaining in power, while Katumbi, a leading opposition figure, has opposed constitutional changes that could allow another presidential term. Katumbi’s camp has accused the proceedings of being politically motivated, while Katebe has rejected that characterization and said the case dates back to 2024.

Katumbi built his fortune through interests spanning mining services, transport, agriculture and real estate before becoming one of the DRC’s most prominent political figures. He is also the chairman of TP Mazembe football club. Billionaires.Africa has described him as the DRC’s wealthiest private individual, although his exact net worth is difficult to establish because of the limited transparency surrounding his business holdings.

The October 26 hearing will mark the next stage in the dispute as the court considers the claims involving the properties and the objections raised by Katumbi’s legal team.