The Spy Who Killed a Prime Minister | Episode: One Gold Tooth | Summary

Introduction "The Spy Who Killed a Prime Minister," hosted by Indira Varma and Raza Jaffrey on Wondery, delves deep into the clandestine operations of intelligence agencies that have shaped global politics. In this gripping episode titled "One Gold Tooth," the narrative unfolds around the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the intricate web of espionage that led to his untimely death.

1. The Political Landscape of Congo (05:57 - 17:23)

The episode begins by setting the stage in October 1960, shortly after Patrice Lumumba was deposed by his former ally, Joseph Mobutu, through a coup. Lumumba, under the protection of United Nations peacekeepers, finds himself isolated yet still passionately connected to his people.

Key Events:

• CIA Involvement: CIA officer Larry Devlin receives a directive from Alan Dulles, the CIA Director, demanding Lumumba's elimination to solidify Mobutu's uncontested rule. Devlin grapples with the moral implications, stating, “The implication is clear. The CIA wants Lumumba to disappear so the 29-year-old Mobutu can rule uncontested” (06:15).

• Lumumba's Vulnerability: As Lumumba attempts to maintain his influence among the people, Devlin realizes the complexity of eliminating a leader who still holds significant support. He reflects, “How will he get near enough to Lumumba to kill him now?” (10:45).

Notable Quote:

"I mustn't be away for long. My boss will grow suspicious." – Shotrov to Larry Devlin (12:30)

2. Lumumba's Escape and Pursuit (17:23 - 26:39)

Lumumba makes a daring escape from his confinement, aiming to rally support in Stanleyville. His flight is fraught with danger as Mobutu intensifies his efforts to recapture him.

Key Events:

• Escape Attempt: On November 27, 1960, Lumumba is smuggled out of Leopoldville amidst heavy Congolese troop presence. He dreams of rebuilding his base of support in Stanleyville, a city loyal to him.

• Intelligence Operations: Devlin and MI6 agent Daphne Park coordinate their efforts to track Lumumba's movements. They strategize, “With a two-pronged attack, there's a decent chance we won't lose him” (15:50).

Notable Quote:

"But if Mobutu's forces will find it harder to reach them." – Narrator (20:10)

3. The Assassination Plot Unfolds (26:39 - 45:00)

As Lumumba continues his escape, the episode uncovers the meticulous planning orchestrated by both CIA and local forces to ensure his demise.

Key Events:

• Collaboration with Katanga: Joseph Mobutu collaborates with Moise Shombe, the leader of the breakaway province of Katanga, to facilitate Lumumba's assassination. Devlin persuades Shombe, stating, “We both want the same thing” (30:25).

• Execution of the Plan: Lumumba is captured and brutally murdered by Katangan soldiers, with Belgian mercenaries ensuring no evidence remains. The gruesome disposal of his body signifies the lengths taken to erase his influence.

Notable Quote:

"Everything must be erased. There can be no shrine." – Katangan Official (35:40)

4. Aftermath and Reflection (45:00 - 60:00)

The narrative transitions to the long-term consequences of Lumumba's assassination, highlighting the enduring impact on Congo and the individuals involved.

Key Events:

• Political Turmoil: Lumumba's death plunges Congo into decades of instability, with Mobutu establishing a dictatorial regime marked by corruption and authoritarianism until his overthrow in 1997.

• Revelations and Closure: Decades later, in June 2022, Lumumba's family confronts the Belgian Prime Minister, receiving a single gold-capped tooth as the only remaining proof of his murder. This moment symbolizes the long-awaited acknowledgment and the painful truth finally coming to light.

Notable Quote:

"This is a painful and disagreeable truth, but it must be spoken." – Belgian Prime Minister Alexandre de Crewe (58:20)

Reflections by Key Figures:

• Daphne Park and Larry Devlin: In a reflective conversation years later, Park muses, “We did our jobs. We got the communists out and we served our countries,” while Devlin contemplates the moral weight of their actions, "What we did, do you think it helped?" (50:45).

5. Legacy and Historical Impact

The episode concludes by underscoring the significant and lasting ramifications of Lumumba's assassination. It explores the CIA's controversial role in foreign interventions during the Cold War and its contribution to sustained dictatorship in Congo. Lumumba remains a symbol of resistance and the fight for self-determination in Africa, while the recent disclosures mark a pivotal moment in addressing historical injustices.

Key Takeaways:

• CIA's Sole Documented Assassination: Lumumba's murder stands as the first and only confirmed case of the CIA orchestrating the assassination of a foreign leader, highlighting the ethical dilemmas of intelligence operations.

• Ongoing Impact: The reverberations of Lumumba's death have shaped Congo's political landscape and influenced global perceptions of Western interference in African affairs.

Closing Thoughts: The episode invites listeners to ponder the ethical boundaries of espionage and foreign intervention, setting the stage for future discussions on similar historical events.

Teaser for Next Episode: "Join us next episode where we discuss Eisenhower's unprecedented decision to order the assassination of another world leader. We explore the ethics of foreign interference in another nation's politics and question where exactly the line is between rescue and control."

Production Credits The episode was meticulously crafted using authoritative sources such as "The Lumumba Plot" by Stuart Reid, "Chief of Station" by Larry Devlin, and "Queen of Spies" by Paddy Hayes. The production team, led by Simon Parkin and Louise Byrne, ensured a narrative that is both engaging and historically grounded.

Conclusion "One Gold Tooth" offers a compelling exploration of Patrice Lumumba's assassination, weaving together firsthand accounts, historical facts, and insightful commentary. It serves as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of clandestine operations and the enduring quest for justice and truth.