Patrice Lumumba quotes

Patrice Lumumba was a Congolese independence leader and the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo. His passionate advocacy for national unity and freedom made him a key figure in Africa's decolonization. He remains an enduring symbol of African liberation and anti-colonial struggle. Here are 12 of his quotes:

No one is perfect in this imperfect world.

Patrice Lumumba

A minimum of comfort is necessary for the practice of virtue.

Patrice Lumumba

We became the target of attacks because we no longer want to submit ... and reject corruption. They tried to bribe us and millions were promised to me, but I refused, I did not take a single centime.

Patrice Lumumba

Without dignity there is no liberty, without justice there is no dignity, and without independence there are no free men.

Patrice Lumumba

The Soviet Union is the only great power whose position has reflected the will and wishes of our people. Therefore the Soviet Union proves to be the only great power that has supported the Congolese people in their struggle from the beginning.

Patrice Lumumba

At the moment when Congo reaches independence, the whole government wishes to pay solemn homage to the King of the Belgians, and to the noble people he represents for the work done here over three quarters of a century. I would not wish my feelings to be wrongly interpreted... Long live King Baudouin, Long live Belgium, Long live the independent Congo.

Patrice Lumumba

We protest against any attempts to split our national territory. The Congo's greatness is based on the maintenance of its political and economic unity.

Patrice Lumumba

The European powers, want to enlist the sympathies of those African leaders who follow their lead and deceive their own people. Some of these powers see the meaning of their presence in the Congo and in Africa in exploiting their riches as much as possible, availing themselves of the services of the corrupt leaders.

Patrice Lumumba

History attests, that independence is never brought to you on a silver platter. It must be won. To that end we must organise ourselves and mobilise all the healthy forces in the country. The Congolese have responded to our appeal and thanks to this united strength we have dealt a mortal blow to rotten colonialism.

Patrice Lumumba

in this sphere even Belgium who, understanding in the end the sense of history, did not try any harder to oppose our independence, is prepared to give us her help and friendship.

Patrice Lumumba