**The Cancellation of Martin Fayulu’s March: A Reflection on the Political and Social Reality in the DRC**
The political context in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in perpetual flux, oscillating between hope and disillusionment, unity and fragmentation. The announcement of the cancellation of Martin Fayulu’s popular march, scheduled for February 1st, raises questions not only about the immediate impact on citizen mobilization, but also about the broader ramifications concerning national cohesion and socio-political stability.
### An Informed Decision
Martin Fayulu, an emblematic figure of the Congolese opposition and leader of the ECiDé party, decided to suspend this march due to the rise in tensions linked to the Rwandan aggression in the eastern DRC. At first glance, this decision could be perceived as an act of capitulation in the face of violence. However, when examining the reasons that led her to this conclusion, we understand that it is a genuine concern for peace. Devos Kitoko, the Secretary General of ECiDé, stressed that the priority must be to preserve social peace after scenes of violence observed during recent demonstrations.
Faced with a society already weakened by centuries of conflict, this approach is a testimony of political responsibility. Indeed, commitments to peace and public tranquility often take precedence over political emergencies, especially in a country where ethnic, political and social tensions remain omnipresent.
### A Call for National Cohesion
Far from simply cancelling, Fayulu took this opportunity to launch a call for “national cohesion”, a notion that deserves to be examined in the Congolese context. The DRC, rich in natural resources and ethnic diversity, is also a country torn apart by internal conflicts and foreign interference. The current crisis is not only linked to the Rwandan aggression, but also represents a symptom of a deeper malaise in the management of diversity and political expectations of the Congolese.
Historically, the DRC has faced many identity crises. Political figures, whether opponents or those in power, have often used nationalist rhetoric to rally their supporters, but this has often resulted in the exclusion of minority groups, pushing them to marginalization or even violence. Fayulu’s emphasis on unity and solidarity is therefore as crucial as it is ambitious, as it not only calls on political leaders to act, but also encourages the population to come together around a common project.
### The Economic and Social Dimension
The decision to suspend the march is also informed by economic considerations. Protests, often synonymous with economic disruption, are undermining an economy already weakened by successive crises. Indeed, according to recent studies, the DRC experienced a contraction of its economy of 5.7% in 2020, followed by a timid recovery estimated at 0.3% in 2021. Each act of violence or vandalism has disastrous financial consequences, affecting not only local businesses, but also foreign investments. In a context where taxation and job creation are crucial issues, the preservation of public order must be integrated into any political discourse.
### Towards a New Mobilization Strategy
Fayulu’s decision should also lead political actors to rethink their mobilization strategies. In a country where the internet and social networks play an increasingly preponderant role, it is essential to diversify communication and engagement methods. Using digital platforms to spread messages of peace and cohesion could prove more effective than organizing marches, especially when the climate of insecurity is palpable.
In addition, building cross-party coalitions focused on crucial social and economic issues could restore the image of Congolese politics. Rather than limiting oneself to confrontation, evoking mobilizing themes such as access to health, education, and drinking water would make it possible to unite multiple energies around common ideals.
### Conclusion
The cancellation of the march organized by Martin Fayulu transcends the simple political event. It marks an important turning point in the way the Congolese opposition perceives mobilization in an environment that is both volatile and complex. If the temporalities of public life are sometimes conducive to the adoption of hasty decisions, temperance and reflection on the future of the country are just as essential. By encouraging support for the Congolese army while advocating peace, Fayulu is laying the foundations for a necessary dialogue between civilian and military actors, at a time when the Congolese nation seems more than ever to need solidarity and collective determination. In this perspective, politics should not be a field of conflict, but a space for building hope for all Congolese.