Category: Politics

The 25th anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Bishop Bernard Kasanda saw the presence of the President of the Republic Félix Tshisekedi, welcomed by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kisangani and President of CENCO, Marcel Utembi for his support for the Catholic Church. However, in his speech, President Tshisekedi called on the Church to go back to the source and to be at the service of the people. It is important that their collaboration be balanced to find solutions to the challenges of the country and its population. The collaboration will certainly contribute to the growth and development of the DRC.

The Congolese Prime Minister attended a summit to discuss the need to restructure the Bretton Woods institutions. According to him, these institutions were created to fight global poverty, but their system has become ineffective. He pleaded for reforms that take social needs into account and are better adapted to current realities. The Prime Minister also encouraged the participation of private investments in development projects, stressing the need to preserve natural resources and promote a sustainable green economy.

The governor of the Kasaï central 1 educational province has launched the ordinary session of the 2023 edition of the State exams. More than 27,666 students are expected to face the tests which include general culture, sciences, languages ​​and the option. The candidates are invited to fight their fear and to have confidence in themselves to face these important tests for their future. Other current topics in the DRC include the relationship between power and the Catholic Church, calls for respect for the constitution for the 2023 presidential election, country risk and solutions for economic growth, the withdrawal of MONUSCO and security in the east of the country.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a tumultuous political situation, particularly with criticism from the Catholic Church of the ruling UDPS party. The country is also facing growing insecurity and an alarming humanitarian crisis. Despite this, the 5th DRC Mining Week highlighted the remarkable performance of Tenke Fungurume Mining in the Congolese mining sector. The withdrawal of MONUSCO and Rwanda’s alleged support for M23 are other major security challenges in the region. In this complex context, Delly Sesanga calls for respecting the Constitution to guarantee the country’s security and move towards a more stable and prosperous society.

This Monday, June 26, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) opened its 171 offices for the reception and processing of applications (BRTC) for the legislative elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). CENI President Denis Kadima expressed his satisfaction with the state of preparation of the commission for these elections. He also encouraged potential candidates to present themselves on time, respecting the conditions required by law. Candidates must submit more than seven forms to file their case. The electoral process promises to be tense in the DRC, following disagreements on the modalities of the implementation of the electoral reform. The CENI must guarantee a credible and inclusive process.

This article discusses the tense relationship between the authorities and the Catholic Church in the DRC, marked recently by the remarks of President Tshisekedi criticizing the partiality of certain prelates. CENCO reacted by emphasizing its role as a defender of the weak and of human rights. Despite the disagreements, it is important to highlight the Church’s history in advocating for social justice and stability, as well as its contribution to the New Year’s Eve Accord in 2019. Mutual respect is essential for a constructive dialogue.

The precarious security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has drawn the attention of the United Nations Security Council. The DRC government is concerned about the growing calls for a withdrawal of MONUSCO, as this would cause a security vacuum and a deterioration of the humanitarian crisis. The withdrawal plan provides for the departure of Monusco by 2024; however, there are still objectives to achieve to ensure a responsible security transition. The government of Félix Tshisekedi is working in this direction and is strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries and international organizations. At the same time, the country has to face important political and social challenges.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has opened 171 offices to receive applications from political parties, independent candidates and political groups for the elections of national deputies in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This operation will end on July 15, 2023 in Kinshasa. The CENI has also encouraged the promotion of gender by aligning at least 50% women on the candidate lists. Meetings are planned with political leaders, particularly those of the opposition for a more inclusive process. However, the CENI must consult the security authorities for the registration of voters in the territory of Kwamouth, province of Maï-Ndombe. Finally, it is urgent to respect the constitution and the laws to ensure peaceful and transparent elections.

Delly Sesanga’s Envol party has decided to participate in the December elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the party will continue to demand a credible and transparent electoral process. Delly Sesanga has also launched a national tour on the refoundation of the Congo to fight against bad governance. Opposition leaders present at a meeting denounced the high cost of living, the “chaotic” electoral process and the “dictatorship” established by Tshisekedi’s power. Despite criticism and tension, some political parties believe it is important to participate in order to make their voices heard.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, reaffirmed his commitment to the pacification of the country, his determination to protect fellow citizens and his attachment to democratic values. He also launched a project to improve the living conditions of the Congolese. In a tense electoral context, civil society called for solidarity for credible and peaceful elections. Sport, especially football, continues to play an important role in national unity. Economic and social development, democracy and human rights are priorities for the future of the country.