The political scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to be lively as preparations for presidential elections draw near. In an interview with Jeune Afrique, Moïse Katumbi, who had supported President Félix Tshisekedi after his divorce from Joseph Kabila in October 2020, revealed that he rejected an offer to become Prime Minister in 2020. However, he says he is determined to face Felix Tshisekedi at the polls next December.
These statements by Katumbi come after he was denied access to Kongo-Central province and one of his top advisers was brutally arrested earlier this week. The country’s political situation raises concerns, in particular the restriction of civil space and electoral pressure. The deputies and senators of Together for the Republic have called for the release of political prisoners and an end to the dictatorship.
However, there are also significant advances in other areas in the DRC. The International Criminal Court is investigating crimes against humanity in the province of Lituji and Julienne Lusenge has been appointed deputy coordinator of the national follow-up mechanism of the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement in the DRC, which represents a step forward for the representation of women in peacebuilding.
In the field of education, nearly 53,000 finalist students passed the Enafep 2023 edition in Kasai, testifying to the solidity of education in the DRC. The fair for young Congolese entrepreneurs also inspired a day of discussion and financing for project leaders.
Finally, security in the eastern DRC remains a major concern, but the extraordinary summit of the East African Community has enabled significant progress in this area.
The DRC continues to be a contrasting country, where political and security challenges coexist with significant advances in other areas. This speaks to the potential and resilience of this country, but also shows the need to continue working together to consolidate progress and address challenges.