The plot is based on the final months of Lumumba (played by Eriq Ebouaney) the first prime minister of the Congo, whose tenure in office lasted two months, until he was driven from office. Joseph Kasa-Vubu (Maka Kotto) is sworn in as the first president of the country, alongside Lumumba as prime minister. Together, they attempt to prevent the Congo succumbing to secession and anarchy. The film concludes with Joseph Mobutu (Alex Descas) seizing power.