### Joseph Kabila: an initiation to citizen consultations in Goma
This Wednesday, May 28, 2025, Joseph Kabila, former president of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), begins Goma a series of “citizen consultations”. This initiative aims to collect the concerns and suggestions of the various social actors in the face of the security challenges weighing on the eastern country, especially in the province of North Kivu. This moment of dialogue raises many questions about the current DRC situation and the way in which the contributions of different groups could shape the future of the country.
#### Context and motivation of consultations
Historically, North Kivu was the scene of several ethnic armed conflicts, exacerbated by rebel groups such as the M23/AFC, often accused of being supported by external forces, notably Rwanda. In this context, Joseph Kabila seems to feel a need for direct engagement with local actors. This raises the question: why now and what are the challenges underlying this initiative?
Consultations also appear to be an answer to the period of political uncertainty which followed the peaceful alternation between Kabila and Félix Tshisekedi. Kabila, after a time of media absence, speaks about importance subjects, and evokes a worrying picture of the socio -political and economic situation, denouncing “non -orthodox governance” under the mandate of his successor. He mentions the corruption, the embezzlement of public funds and an authoritarian drift, which leads to reflect on the collective responsibility of the Congolese elites in this degradation.
#### Objectives of consultations and challenges to overcome
During these consultations, Kabila aspires to start a direct dialogue with a range of interlocutors: policies, administrative, community leaders and female organizations, among others. This inclusive process could be perceived as a positive approach, promoting transparency and listening to local concerns. However, it is legitimate to question the real impact of these exchanges. Who turns Kabila to ask for solutions? How do they plan to value the proposals collected?
Kabila spoke of a “deep and multidimensional” crisis and presented a “citizen pact” articulated around twelve key points, supposed to restore democracy and stability in the DRC. The design of this pact could lack clarity on the concrete means of its implementation. Beyond the intentions, a detailed action plan and follow-up mechanisms would be essential to strengthen the credibility of this initiative.
#### Reception of proposals and follow -up
One crucial aspect of this approach will be Kabila’s ability to mobilize the actors concerned in the implementation of the proposals from consultations. The perception of the initiative by local populations will also be decisive. Opinions on the former president are shared: some see it as the expression of a desire to regain legitimacy in public debate, while others can consider this approach as a simple return to the political scene.
Persistent security challenges in the east of the country, coupled with economic and social problems, require reinforced cooperation and continuous dialogue between all stakeholders. The state’s ability to adopt an inclusive approach and respond to the concerns of citizens in terms of security, human rights and economic development will be crucial.
#### Conclusion: an opportunity for reflection
Joseph Kabila’s resumption of contact with the nation’s living forces through these consultations could be interpreted as an opportunity for re -engagement with the population, and a way to explore promising solutions for the future of the DRC. In order for this initiative to have positive repercussions, it is imperative that dialogues are not limited to simple consultations, but result in concrete actions and a real desire for change. The road to responsible and transparent governance requires a real desire to build bridges between the different components of Congolese society.
In the current context, the Democratic Republic of Congo is at a crossroads. The commitment of its leaders, whether current or ancient, will undeniably influence the political and social orientation of the country. The results of Kabila’s consultations and their repercussions will deserve to be followed closely, as they could shape the heads and hearts of the Congolese.