On the eve of the presidential election in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, candidate for his own succession, paid a visit to Lubumbashi, in the south of the country. This region, located in the mineral-rich province of Katanga, is of great economic importance for the country. Tshisekedi’s visit to Lubumbashi aimed to renew his commitment to peace and improving the living conditions of the Congolese.
During his meeting in Lubumbashi, Félix Tshisekedi called on his supporters to trust him and renew their support. This meeting was the first that the candidate held after having suspended his campaign for three days following a tragedy that occurred during one of his previous meetings, where six people lost their lives in a stampede.
Addressing the issue of Rwanda’s alleged aggression against the DRC, Tshisekedi promised to continue the fight for the country’s liberation, continuing what the late President Laurent-Désiré Kabila had undertaken. He stressed that the mission of his party was to wake up the Congolese people and mobilize them so that they do not betray the country.
On the economic front, Félix Tshisekedi reiterated his desire to renegotiate mining contracts so that the DRC can benefit more equitably from its natural resources. He declares that he wants to put an end to contracts signed in the past, and promises “win-win” type partnerships. He cites the example of the mining companies Tenke Fungurume mining (TFM) and Sicomines, which would be in agreement with this vision.
Furthermore, Tshisekedi said he was concerned about the intercommunity tensions which took place recently in the Katanga region. He insisted that all Congolese are equal and owners of the country, and that he would not tolerate tribal feuds. He recalled that the Congolese people form a single entity, united by their Congolese identity.
Finally, in an implicit position, Félix Tshisekedi indirectly attacked Moïse Katumbi, his political opponent from Katanga. He plans to go to Likasi, a town located 120 kilometers from Lubumbashi, the day after his meeting.
In conclusion, Félix Tshisekedi continues his electoral campaign with vigor, pledging to fight for the freedom and well-being of the Congolese people. His visit to Lubumbashi helped strengthen his position with his supporters and convey his promises for the future of the DRC. It now remains to be seen what the verdict of the presidential elections will be, and whether Félix Tshisekedi will be able to implement his ambitious plans for the country.