### Political cohesion and security challenges in the DRC: An analysis of the words of Modeste Bahati
On March 14, 2025, Modeste Bahati, an emblematic figure of the Alliance of Democratic Forces of Congo and Allied (AFDC-A), spoke during a political morning in Kinshasa to call to strengthen cohesion within the Sacred Union of the Nation. These words arise in a context of increasing tensions among political leaders, highlighting deep national challenges, particularly in terms of governance, security and socio-political integration.
** The need for a dynamic of lasting peace **
Bahati spoke of the seriousness of the situation in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where war has left deep scars, both human and structural. By joining international efforts for a return to peace in the region, he referred to the processes of Luanda and Nairobi, but also to the social pact put forward by the initiatives of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and Christian churches (ECC).
It is interesting to note that the DRC, according to reports from Human Rights Watch, recorded more than 700,000 internal displaced in 2024 due to the armed conflict in the Kivu provinces. These figures reveal the urgency of a response not only military, but also political and social to restore peace and confidence between the various actors. Bahati said that an integrated response into the deep causes of violence is essential, in particular through political decline, against impunity and for more equitable governance.
** A criticism of the current governance scheme **
From a socio -political point of view, Bahati’s statements do not only call for solidarity; They are also an implicit criticism of the current governance scheme, where internal divisions complicate the implementation of public policies. Bahati’s approach can be appreciated as an attempt to restore a certain unity among the actors of power, who sometimes seem more concerned about their personal agendas than by a joint action plan for the nation.
In comparison, a 2023 World Bank study revealed that countries with strong political cohesion are 20% more effective in the allocation of resources for socio-economic development. This statistic strengthens the idea that Bahati’s efforts to promote unity could lead to long -term positive results, not only on the security, but also economical level.
** The dimension of international support **
Another essential aspect mentioned by Bahati is the need for international pressure so that the International Criminal Court (ICC) intervenes in order to continue the attackers. This point raises the question of international responsibility in the face of human rights violations in the DRC. Historically, interventions of the international community, such as those during crises in Bosnia or Rwanda, have shown that international justice can play a crucial role in supporting countries in difficulty.
However, such an approach requires a strong political will on the part of Congolese leaders to claim these supporters by keeping the sovereignty and integrity of the nation in mind. The challenge will therefore be to juggle between a call for international aid and the autonomous response of Congolese institutions.
** Look at the future **
If Bahati’s call for cohesion temporarily buries internal dissensions, it will be essential to follow the evolution of political commitments that will follow this intervention. The DRC, while faced with significant challenges, also has the potential to transform these crises into opportunities. By promoting a more inclusive dialogue between the different factions and by integrating the concerns of the populations impacted by conflicts, the DRC could lay the foundations for a political and socio-economic renaissance.
In conclusion, the words of modest Bahati are not just good intentions perceived within the framework of a political discourse. They represent an urgent appeal for action on several fronts, engaging in political leaders to go beyond their personal interests to embrace a national unity project which, if he is carried out, can really bring a significant and lasting change within the nation. It is only by combining this vision with solid support from the international community and deep structural reforms that the DRC will be able to envisage a future of true peace and prosperity.