### Discreditation of Wazalendo: Perspectives and reactions in Kinshasa
On June 6, 2025, a press conference in Kinshasa highlighted the growing concerns of a group of national and provincial deputies concerning a defamation campaign targeting the Wazalendo, a movement of Congolese patriots claiming their role in the defense of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Accusations of manipulation, balkanization of the country and support for the ancient order have emerged from this discussion, thus illustrating the political and social tensions in progress within the country.
### Les Wazalendo: A patriotic initiative?
The Wazalendo describe themselves as young people from the remote areas of the DRC, determined to defend their land in the face of the perceived assaults of neighboring countries. Didier Kamundu, a deputy from North Kivu, said that these young people were not recruited by the current government, but that they organized themselves in the face of persistent insecurity. This self -managed position reflects a complex reality: many Congolese feel a profound need for protection and safety, often insufficiently covered by state institutions. This phenomenon raises questions about the role of the State in the protection of citizens.
### Reactions to accredit charges
The declarations of deputies, in particular that of Didier Kamundu, raise concerns on intentions behind the defamation campaign, vocalized by the publication of a political analysis report identified under the name of “Ebuteli”. The fact that this report has not yet been translated into French, while generating a significant resonance in the Western and Congolese media, suggests complex issues around communication and information. In a context where the construction of a national story is crucial, the way in which these reports are perceived can have a major impact on public opinion.
### Call for vigilance and mobilization
The meeting also discussed the support of deputies to the peace approaches by President Tshisekedi on the international scene, notably in Washington and Qatar. This indicates a desire to find diplomatic solutions in a context of lasting conflict, while being aware of the disturbing realities that persist in the field. The warning of Muhozi Ngaruye, who calls for remaining vigilant in the face of an “enemy” still active, underlines this duality between diplomacy and the need for local solidarity in the face of a volatile security situation.
### Questions about the political use of Wazalendo
Nevertheless, it is important to underline certain questions which emerge from this dynamic. The question of the political use of the wazalendo is inevitably arising: to what extent are their actions authentically motivated by a desire for national defense, and to what extent could they be instrumentalized for internal political agendas? The Congolese authorities are facing a challenge: how to balance support for Wazalendo with the expectations of international support and the potential risks of climbing conflict?
### Conclusion: towards a collective reflection
It is undeniable that the defamation campaign against the Wazalendo and the worries that surround it raise serious problems for the DRC. These events are not only a question of perception, but also involve profound issues of nationalism, security and governance. While the country continues to navigate these troubled waters, a thoughtful and collaborative approach could make it possible to throw bridges between the different stakeholders, to create an environment of dialogue, and to strengthen national solidarity in a spirit of peace and reconciliation.
The voices of the deputies and the Wazalendo must be heard in this quest for a democratic republic of the united and peaceful Congo. By keeping in mind the importance of clear and ambiguous communication, it is crucial to work for a future where challenges are discussed with a deep understanding of the causes and consequences that give them life.