Category: Politics

The summary of the article is as follows:
The absence of Martin Fayulu’s signature in a memorandum sent to the CENI by four Congolese opposition leaders raises questions about the cohesion of the opposition and its internal divisions. Some see it as a manifestation of Fayulu’s political ego, while others wonder if it means he opposes his colleagues’ dialogue approach. It is crucial that the Congolese opposition overcome its differences and present itself in a united and coherent manner in the next elections to offer a credible alternative to the power in place.

During the last meeting of the Council of Ministers, VPM Peter Kazadi presented the report of the recent tripartite between the DRC, Rwanda and UNHCR. The report highlights the reactivation of the 2010 tripartite agreements and the corresponding roadmap. It is planned to relaunch the process of voluntary repatriation of Congolese refugees living in Rwanda and Rwandan refugees living in the DRC. The resurgence of rebels in the eastern region of the DRC and accusations of collaboration with the FDLR have led to the demand for an urgent tripartite. The DRC National Assembly also plans to adopt a resolution to frame the repatriation of Congolese refugees to Rwanda. It is essential to find lasting solutions to promote reconciliation between the two countries and improve the humanitarian situation of the refugees.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is preparing for its 4th electoral cycle in December. President Tshisekedi recalled the importance of streamlining government actions for the second half of 2023. He also asked the Prime Minister to present a consolidated roadmap. The government adjustments aim to strengthen government action and respond to economic, security and fundamental rights protection challenges. President Tshisekedi wants to put in place a clear and coherent program of action to transform the DRC into a prosperous and secure country. The 4th electoral cycle in December will be decisive for the future of the country. The rationalization and prioritization of government actions are at the heart of the President’s concerns.

Summary :

A deadly attack attributed to ADF fighters took place in the village of Musandaba, North Kivu, DRC. Three people lost their lives during this attack perpetrated by assailants armed with knives. The authorities fear that the balance sheet will increase, a young girl being reported missing. Despite joint operations by the Congolese and Ugandan armies, ADF fighters continue to sow terror in the Ruwenzori region. Local authorities and civil society are calling for an intensification of efforts to combat this persistent threat.

The DRC government expresses its concern over the attacks perpetrated by the RDF/M23 coalition against the patriot self-defense forces. M23-RDF fighters launched operations in several territories in the east of the country, despite efforts to establish peace. The security situation remains worrying, with violence perpetrated by various militias and the still active ADF-MTM terrorists. Regional diplomatic initiatives struggle to produce concrete results on the ground. SADC support has been requested by Kinshasa, with an upcoming troop deployment. International cooperation remains essential to resolve these conflicts and guarantee security and stability in the region.

The Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) calls on the Congolese people to choose their political representatives objectively in the next elections. Competence and moral probity are the essential criteria to consider. The call is to avoid opportunists, surrogate family members, multi-level candidates, tribalists, nepotists and conscience buying. CENCO encourages the population to exercise vigilance and critical thinking to ensure responsible and informed elections. Citizen participation and the evaluation of candidate programs are essential for a truly representative democracy. CENCO’s appeal aims to consolidate democracy in the DR Congo and to place the general interest above personal and partisan considerations.

In this article, the European Union expresses its deep concern at the United Nations report on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It strongly supports the recommendations of the report and calls for concrete measures to put an end to human rights violations and impunity for the perpetrators of crimes. The EU strongly condemns the acts of violence perpetrated against civilians, in particular the massive sexual violence and the recruitment of children. It calls for inclusive, democratic and transparent elections in 2023 and encourages regional cooperation to foster stability in the region. The stability and well-being of the Congolese people is a top priority for the EU and the international community.

In a recent article, the citizens’ movement Fight for Change (LUCHA) expresses its concern over attacks on democratic space in the province of Kasaï-Central in the Democratic Republic of Congo. LUCHA denounces a series of acts of political intolerance, physical attacks, vandalism and arbitrary arrests. It calls on the authorities to take measures to guarantee respect for democracy and human rights. LUCHA also plans to organize large-scale actions if these recommendations are not respected. It is essential that the international community support these efforts to preserve democratic space and defend the rights of citizens in the DRC.