** Towards a real unit: the exhortation of Pastor Joëlle Kabasele in the face of Congolese challenges **
On March 8, 2025, on the occasion of International Women’s Rights Day, Pastor Joëlle Kabasele pronounced a significant exhortation at the People’s Palace, calling for a collective mobilization of the Congolese around President Félix Tshisekedi to deal with increasing insecurity in the country, particularly in its eastern regions. At first glance, his speech seems to be a simple call to unity, but in reality, he raises deep questions about the very nature of peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and on the collective responsibility of its citizens.
### A red flag on false peace
Kabasele’s assertion on the “false peace” of the DRC draws attention. It evokes a particularly striking notion: peace is not simply the absence of war, but a state of collective well-being where the rights of each individual, and especially women, are respected. Using the image of Marshal Mobutu, Kabasele reminds the nation that history cannot be summed up at periods of apparent calm. From 1965 to 1997, the DRC experienced deep inequalities and human rights violations under the Mobutu regime, themes that still resonate today.
### The woman’s voice in the struggle for peace
The pastor insists that the life of Congolese women does not have the same value as those of Western women. This discourse highlights not only gender inequalities, but also deeply anchored cultural prejudices which continue to hinder social progress. By integrating the struggle for women’s rights in political discourse, Kabasele throws a bridge between the security of security and gender equality. His perspective does not only point to a societal problem; She calls on radical and inclusive solutions to the failure of external interventions.
### Unity as a remedy: a tactic of David against Goliath
The biblical image of David and Goliath, used by Kabasele, is particularly appropriate in the Congolese framework. It refers to the need to overcome apparently insurmountable obstacles through unity and solidarity. However, this metaphor raises another question: faced with multifaceted challenges – economic, social, environmental – what does the “goliath” that the DRC must really represent? Is it an external enemy like Rwanda, or is it rather internal corruption and political divisions that hinder march to a united and prosperous Nation?
## active participation and the duty of respect
Another key assertion of Kabasele concerns the need to respect the Congolese. This notion of respect echoes an old rule of diplomacy and social interaction: respect is reciprocal. The Congolese, to deserve respect abroad, must first maintain a feeling of dignity and self-compliance. This implies the need to educate young generations on the value of their culture and civics standards.
### Towards a new narration: the voices of revolt and hope
It is essential to rewrite the Congolese story to replace victimization with a narration of resilience. Kabasele calls for a dialogue that incorporates all voices, from women to young people, including opinion leaders. Instead of focusing only on past injustices, it would be beneficial to attach more importance to community peace initiatives carried out by local actors and civil society organizations.
### The role of churches and civilized organizations
The holding of ecumenical worship, led by the Ministry of the Gender, Family and Children, underlines the importance of religious institutions as key actors in the struggle for peace. Indeed, the Church has historically played a central role in Congolese society, especially in times of crisis. It would be relevant to support initiatives which include both spiritual elements and field actions for a real conversion of passion for peace into concrete actions.
### Conclusion: a call for action and collective reflection
The message of Pastor Joëlle Kabasele is an invitation to come together, but also a call for deep reflection. It is not only a question of supporting President Tshisekedi, but of building a society where peace is the fruit of a collective commitment beyond political rivalries. By redefining the legitimacy of authority and involving all the strata of society, the DRC could open the way to lasting peace – not an illusory peace, but a real harmony where every citizen, and in particular each woman, will have the chance to flourish.
Faced with these challenges, it belongs to each Congolese, to each Congolese, to choose between procrastination and active participation in the construction of a better future.