Thursday, November 28, 2024 will remain etched in the minds of the people of Kinshasa, as Head of State Félix Tshisekedi addressed the inauguration of the Conference of Provincial Governors in Kalemie. The event was marked by a strong and committed speech, highlighting the crucial issues facing provincial institutions in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
From the first words spoken by the President, he highlighted the instability that reigns within provincial governments, a damning observation of the incessant conflicts between local political leaders. These internal quarrels, motivated by personal interests and selfish advantages, considerably hamper the harmonious development of the territories. Félix Tshisekedi did not mince his words in pointing out endemic insecurity, humanitarian crises and the opaque management of investment budgets, all of which hinder the economic growth of Congolese provinces.
The Head of State also addressed the governors present directly, urging them to radically change their approach to public management. He stressed the crucial importance of collective reflection to overcome obstacles and ensure balanced and sustainable development throughout the country. Félix Tshisekedi thus called for unwavering solidarity between the new and old governors, inviting them to demonstrate efficiency and transparency in the implementation of development projects.
In a gesture of conciliation, the heads of the provincial executives formulated a memorandum presenting their grievances to the President. They notably demanded a sufficient allocation of investment credits, the regular payment of retrocessions and operating costs, as well as the effective establishment of the national equalization fund. In response, Félix Tshisekedi undertook to give instructions to adequately respond to the governors’ requests, particularly in connection with the constitutional change.
Beyond the speeches and demands, this day in Kalemie was marked by symbolic moments and concrete actions. The President had planned to inaugurate the new building of the Central Bank of Congo, a symbol of the modernization of the country’s financial infrastructure. In addition, the visit to the Kalemie Courthouse, the result of the partnership with Sweden and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), illustrates the importance of international collaborations for strengthening the rule of law in the DRC.
In a context where political, economic and security challenges remain significant, the words of the Head of State resonate as a call for unity and actionExpectations are high, and Congolese citizens hope that this dynamic initiated in Kalemie will allow for real change, promoting inclusive development and the consolidation of democracy in the DRC.