We are all friends until somebody start shooting.

We are all friends until somebody start shooting.

On this day, 66 years ago, the struggle for power between Mobutu and Lumumba reached its peak as the Military commander placed Lumumba’s house under siege.

Standing in the balcony as troops ringed his house, Mr Lumumba challenged Col Mobutu to a duel.” Let him choose his weapons and we will see who is strongest”, he cried.

Col Mobutu arrived in Lumumba’s compound in person and told reporters :

“If he wants a trial of strength i will give it to him .Nobody enters or leaves this house from now on.”

As Congolese soldiers stood facing United Nations guards round Mr Lumumba’s home , a company of Ghanian troops guarding the residence took up position.A Ghanian Colonel told reporters:

“We are all friends until somebody start shooting.”