Category: Politics

President Félix Tshisekedi arouses mixed reactions following his decision not to physically settle in Goma to monitor the security situation in eastern DRC. While some feel that his presence would have shown real commitment, others believe that technology allows him to stay informed and make informed decisions. However, the issue of security in this region remains a major concern and the government must continue to work actively to establish peace and stability. Technology can be a valuable tool, but it is crucial to maintain a direct dialogue with the population and to take concrete action on the ground.

The end of the FCC-CACH coalition in the DRC marks a major turning point in the country’s politics. Despite the hopes placed in this alliance, the tensions and disagreements between the two parties made the rupture inevitable. President Félix Tshisekedi reacted by creating a new coalition, the Sacred Union of the Nation, in the hope of implementing his reforms and guaranteeing the country’s development. However, the political future of the DRC remains uncertain and significant challenges await President Tshisekedi, such as building a solid parliamentary majority and managing relations with other political forces in the country.

LUCHA, a citizens’ movement in the Democratic Republic of Congo, denounces a deterioration of the democratic space in the province of Kasaï-Central. They report acts of political intolerance, physical attacks, intimidation and arbitrary arrests perpetrated by political party activists. LUCHA asks the governor to respect democratic standards and also asks for the transfer of the commander of the Congolese police. They plan to take far-reaching action if their recommendations are not heeded. It is crucial that the authorities take measures to protect the democratic rights of citizens and prevent political violence. LUCHA draws attention to the importance of preserving democratic freedoms and calls for immediate action to guarantee a genuine democratic space. It is essential to respect the principles of democracy and to ensure that all citizens of Kasaï-Central can exercise their fundamental rights.

The choice of our leaders in the upcoming elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a privilege and a crucial responsibility. Archbishop Marcel Utembi Tapa, President of the Episcopal Conference of Congo, stressed the importance of prioritizing competence and moral integrity during this critical period for the country. He encouraged the Congolese to reject the opportunists and choose leaders who will serve the general interest rather than their own interests. CENCO thus recalls the need for civic engagement and active participation to build a better society.

Civil society in the territory of Gungu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has launched an innovative initiative called the “electoral showcase” for the upcoming elections. This initiative aims to identify and promote the most qualified and competent candidates to represent the interests of the territory. The electoral showcase uses transparent criteria to assess the candidates, such as their competence, their initiatives and their social project. This approach promotes transparency, builds voter confidence and encourages socio-economic development in the region. This initiative is an example of the importance of citizen involvement and innovation in the electoral process.

The president of the Kasai-Oriental Provincial Assembly, Athanase Kabongo Malebongo, faces a petition signed by a majority of provincial deputies. The deputies blame Kabongo Malebongo for several shortcomings, such as poor coordination of activities, lack of accountability and incompetence in presiding over plenary sessions. They demand the convening of an extraordinary session and the dismissal of Kabongo Malebongo. The President’s office contests the procedure and invites the deputies to respect the procedure in force. This situation raises questions about the future of the Kasaï-Oriental Provincial Assembly and the next developments will be decisive in determining whether the dismissal of the president will be successful.

The city of Kinshasa is facing a multiplication of kidnappings, creating a psychosis among the inhabitants. Kidnapping testimonies are multiplying, with ransoms demanded. Yellow taxis, called “Ketchs”, are often used during these kidnappings, which breeds widespread mistrust. The inhabitants express their dissatisfaction with the inaction of the police. They call on the competent authorities to take measures to ensure the safety of all. The population lives in fear and demands concrete actions to restore confidence and tranquility in the city.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, has given up on his promise to settle in Goma to closely monitor the security situation in the east of the country. He says he can handle the situation remotely using technology. The move sparks debate about the president’s ability to truly understand the lived realities of the local population. Some hail his use of technology, while others believe that a physical presence on the ground is essential to making a real impact. Solving the security problems in eastern DRC will require a comprehensive approach and strong political will.

The dismissal of the President of the Kinshasa Provincial Assembly, Godé Mpoyi, was voted overwhelmingly by the provincial deputies. This decision comes following numerous accusations of abuse of power and mismanagement of the Assembly. This dismissal marks a new stage in the political and institutional crisis of Kinshasa, and testifies to the tensions between Godé Mpoyi and the governor of the city. This situation offers an opportunity for political renewal for the Provincial Assembly, by seeking a new transparent and rigorous President. The impact of this dismissal on the population and on the political and social situation remains to be determined, underlining the importance of responsible and honest governance.

The European Union and other partners are mobilizing to support the Democratic Republic of Congo towards free and transparent elections in December 2023. The EU underlines the importance of the role of the electoral commission and calls for the organization of competitive elections , peaceful and inclusive. Freedom of expression, of the media and of movement must be guaranteed, and any excessive use of force must be avoided. Hate speech and xenophobia are condemned, as are attempts at division based on ethnic or religious criteria. International engagement is crucial for the consolidation of democracy and stability in the DRC.