The challenges of decentralization in the Democratic Republic of Congo
In a correspondence addressed to Prime Minister Sama Lukonde, the Minister of State, Minister of Decentralization and Institutional Reforms Eustache Muhanzi denounced the encroachment by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of the Interior Peter Kazadi, on the prerogatives falling under the Ministry of Decentralization and Institutional Reforms. This situation compromises collaboration within the government and raises questions about the challenges of decentralization in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Minister Muhanzi accuses his colleague of the Interior of interfering in the competences of his ministry, which goes against the laws in force. Indeed, the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Congo attributes to the Ministry of Decentralization the exclusive responsibility for the implementation of decentralization, including the appointment of officials of decentralized territorial entities. Thus, the ministerial decree issued by Peter Kazadi is considered a violation of the Constitution and the laws in place.
This case raises questions about the foundations of decentralization in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Decentralization is a fundamental principle of governance that aims to transfer skills and resources from central institutions to local levels. It helps to strengthen democracy by giving local communities decision-making and management power on issues that directly concern them. It also promotes the economic and social development of the regions, by implementing policies and projects adapted to local needs.
However, the effective implementation of decentralization in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a complex challenge. Questions relating to funding, administrative capacity and coordination between the different actors regularly arise. In addition, jurisdictional conflicts between ministries can hamper the proper functioning of the decentralization process.
In the present case, the dispute between Ministers Muhanzi and Kazadi highlights the need for clear coordination and a well-defined distribution of responsibilities between the different ministries. It is essential that each ministry respects the powers attributed to it by the Constitution and the laws in force, in order to ensure the smooth running of the decentralization process.
Prime Minister Sama Lukonde is called upon to play the role of mediator and guarantor of government cohesion. He must remind his ministers of the limits of their actions and ensure that everyone respects the powers defined by law.. Decentralization is an important lever for the development of the country, so it is essential to resolve conflicts and promote harmonious collaboration between ministries.
In conclusion, decentralization in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a complex process that presents challenges and issues. The current situation between Ministers Muhanzi and Kazadi highlights the importance of clear coordination between ministries and a well-defined distribution of responsibilities. It is essential that each ministry respects the powers assigned to it, in order to guarantee the proper functioning of decentralization and to promote the economic and social development of the regions of the country