DR Congo powerful opposition figure and TP Mazembe boss Moise Katumbi has received the backing of fellow opposition leaders under the banner G7 to go for the country’s top seat in November elections.

Katumbi, a former governor of the mineral rich Katanga province is viewed from some quarters as the natural successor to President Joseph Kabila whose second term in office lapses in December. He is yet to officially accept the endorsement which came following a G7 convention in the capital Kinshasa, but has renewed calls for Kabila to step down when his tenure comes to an end.

“I will give my position on the candidacy soon but the priority is to agree on a common condidate,”

“For a now, I am continuing my consultations here in Europe for the unity of the opposition.” Katumbi was quoted by BBC.

A successful businessman, Katumbi is famed for transforming Lubumbashi based Mazembe into an enviable football powerhouse in Africa and beyond with a revenue of 14M starling pounds.

The “Ravens” have lifted the prestigious CAF Champions League crown five times, including last year’s title. They become the first African team to reach the final of FIFA Club World Cup in 2010, going down 3-0 to European champions Inter Milan of Italy under thenCoach Jose Mourinho.

If he clinches the seat, Katumbi will reiterate the power of the beautiful game both on and off the field.

@bonfaceosano