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Kassel Bans 'Lumumba' Drink Name as More German Markets Urge Vendors to Drop It

Organizers say retiring the term honors Patrice Lumumba’s memory and keeps the markets welcoming.

Overview

  • Kassel Marketing has barred vendors from labeling rum‑spiked hot chocolate as 'Lumumba' and says all stalls have already complied.
  • Vendors in Kassel who ignore the rule can be excluded after two warnings, according to HNA reporting cited by inFranken.
  • Bremerhaven’s organizers have recommended avoiding the term but emphasize they are not dictating product names, said managing director Michael Gerber.
  • Frankfurt advised vendors last year to stop using the name, and a city spokeswoman says no stands are offering it under that label this season.
  • Critics call the label racially insensitive because it invokes Congolese independence leader Patrice Lumumba, who was overthrown in 1960 and later killed.