Laurent Kabila Poem by akachukwu chukwuemeka ( akabeks)

(dedicated to late President of Democratic Republic of Congo; reportedly killed by one of his bodygaurds)

To cut down an iroko unwittingly,
You destroy the shade and fortress it gives.

When the sun shines perspiration on the birds,
They will spread their feathers in remorse and cry;
There use to be an iroko here…

The remains of the iroko will create a long traffic
To the way of passage.

When the logs are finally cleared, the stump
Remains Laurent Kabila,
A historic landmark.


©2001