Category: International

The Congo N’est Pas à Vendre (CNPAV) coalition denounced the opacity of the selection process for operators of oil blocks in the DRC during a press conference in Kinshasa. She notes four irregularities in this process and calls on the government to promote full transparency. The CNPAV also advocates in-depth studies before deciding whether to exploit it or not, while promoting transparency and accountability in all decisions related to the exploitation of natural resources. This position is important and comes in the context of debates on the management of natural resources in Africa.

The meeting between the Ivorian and Congolese Prime Ministers strengthened bilateral ties between the two countries. Discussions focused on economic and cultural cooperation, as well as the Games of La Francophonie. The two Prime Ministers expressed their support and their desire to strengthen the exchanges in the years to come. Beyond cooperation, this meeting also consolidated their personal friendship, marked by the exchange of symbolic gifts. This meeting opens up new opportunities for collaboration and development for Côte d’Ivoire and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The extraordinary summit of the East African Community hailed the efforts of President Tshisekedi for reconciliation and peace in the DRC. The leaders also extended the status of forces agreement for six months to consolidate the progress of the East African Regional Force. The summit condemned recent ceasefire violations and called for measures to avoid their recurrence. Leaders also encouraged the protection of civilians and favored the return of internally displaced persons to areas liberated by armed groups. Finally, the summit called on the DRC and South Sudan to start bilateral discussions to resolve the issues related to the negative forces at their common border.

The IXᵉˢ Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa were officially opened by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi. In his opening speech, the President stressed the importance of Francophone solidarity with the Congolese people, who face many challenges. He denounced the unjust aggression suffered by the Congolese in the east of the country and the looting of their natural resources. The President welcomed the presence of delegations from member countries of La Francophonie, saying that it gives hope and strengthens the confidence of the Congolese in Francophone solidarity. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic and the security crisis, all the conditions were met to ensure the smooth running of the Games. The Games of La Francophonie are an opportunity for the DRC to show its determination to face the challenges and to affirm its commitment to La Francophonie. They represent French-speaking solidarity with the Congolese people and the desire to live collectively and build a better future.

Several embassies and the European Union Delegation issued an official statement on June 2 to reaffirm their commitment to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This press release underlines the need to support the Congolese nation during the electoral process which will take place in December 2023, with a concern for inclusion, transparency and pacifism. Stakeholders are invited to respect the conditions laid down by the constitution and the electoral law in order to give more visibility to democracy in the DRC.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is in turmoil ahead of the upcoming presidential elections. Moïse Katumbi, former supporter of Félix Tshisekedi, revealed that he refused an offer to become Prime Minister in 2020. He says he is determined to face Tshisekedi at the polls.

The restriction of civil space and electoral pressure are sources of concern. Political figures have called for the release of political prisoners and an end to the dictatorship.

However, significant progress has been made in other areas in the DRC, notably with the International Criminal Court which is investigating crimes against humanity in the province of Lituji. Julienne Lusenge has been appointed deputy coordinator of the national monitoring mechanism of the Addis Ababa Framework Agreement, representing a step forward for the representation of women in peacebuilding.

The DRC continues to face political and security challenges, but progress in other areas demonstrates its potential and resilience.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has launched a new mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the province of Ituri, to document crimes against humanity committed by armed groups in this region since the 2000s. ICC Attorney General Karim Khan has spoken with the military governor of the province and evidence of these crimes has been assessed. This mission is a collaboration between the Congolese government, the ICC and MONUSCO, and shows their commitment to ending the violence in eastern DRC. Much work remains to be done to guarantee the safety of the population in this region.

The article recounts the launch of the national primary school leaving exam in Kasaï Central province with more than 60,000 candidates registered, marking an increase from the previous year. The Vice-Governor expressed his gratitude to the President of the Republic and praised the efforts in favor of education. The article hopes that the candidates will be able to continue their studies in the best possible conditions for their future and that of the country.