Émile Biayenda was a Congolese cardinal and the Archbishop of Brazzaville who served from 1971 until his death in 1977. Born in 1927 in Mpangala, he pursued theological and sociological studies in France before his ordination in 1958. He became the first cardinal from the Republic of the Congo when he was elevated by Pope Paul VI in 1973. Known for his outspoken stance on social justice and humanitarian issues, his critical views regarding the government of his nation eventually led to his abduction and murder by soldiers.