Tension and division at the UDPS/Tshisekedi interfederation: the ruling party in turmoil
On Thursday, July 13, 2023, a strong tension erupted at the interfederation of the political party Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS / Tshisekedi) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The militants of the ruling party were furious at the non-alignment of their interfederal president, Gabriel Ilunga, on the list of potential candidates for the next legislative elections.
The situation degenerated when these militants ransacked the offices of the permanence and disrupted traffic on Muhona Avenue. Projectiles were even exchanged between the angry factions. This violence bears witness to the deep divisions that persist within the UDPS.
It is important to remember that Gabriel Ilunga, current interfederal UDPS/Tshisekedi in the province of Kasaï-Central, has been a long-time activist within the party. His appointment as head of the interfederation had already been a source of controversy, particularly with another party official, Blandard Tshimbombo. The visit of the general secretary of the UDPS/Tshisekedi, Augustin Kabuya, to Kananga to try to ease the tensions was obviously not enough to resolve the conflict.
This situation testifies to the fragility of relations within the UDPS/Tshisekedi and raises questions about the unity and cohesion of the ruling party. Internal divisions could impact the party’s performance in the upcoming legislative elections.
It is essential that the UDPS/Tshisekedi leaders find a way to overcome these differences and restore unity within the party. Political stability and the proper functioning of democratic institutions depend on it. It is also crucial that party activists can express their disagreements peacefully and constructively.
The situation at the UDPS/Tshisekedi interfederation highlights the importance of strong leadership and effective communication within political parties. Internal disputes must be resolved transparently and democratically, in order to preserve the integrity and effectiveness of the ruling party.
It remains to be hoped that the tensions within the UDPS/Tshisekedi can be eased and that the party can continue to play a key role in the democratic advancement of the Democratic Republic of the Congo