Category: Politics

**Bunia: Between disinformation and resilience, a look at a troubled day**

On January 28, 2024, the city of Bunia experienced a decisive moment, torn between a viral movement on social networks calling for protests against Rwandan aggression and a citizen response that chose the path of serenity. In a context where digital technology is becoming a double-edged sword, calls for revolt, anonymous and often malicious, highlight the dangers of disinformation.

While businesses and schools closed, revealing the economic precariousness of a population already weakened by years of instability, Bunia also showed impressive resilience. The day saw a gradual return to normality, illustrating the desire of residents to preserve a peaceful existence.

The lessons learned from this event, which highlight the fractures within Congolese society, encourage a dialogue on the importance of reliable information to counter fake news. As we face an uncertain future, the voice of citizens remains essential to building a sustainable framework to face contemporary challenges.

**The Flaming Powers: The Chaotic Beginning of the Trump Presidency 2.0**

The election of Donald Trump has sparked heated debates about American democracy, as he tries to test the limits of his authority. The recent decision to freeze federal aid highlights critical questions about the balance of power in an already tense context. Compared to memories of authoritarian leaders like Chávez and Erdoğan, this incident reinforces the need for rigorous oversight of the separation of powers.

The swift action of a federal judge to overturn the freeze illustrates the importance of judicial oversight, but raises questions about the long-term consequences for millions of citizens whose lives depend on this support. Amidst this uncertainty, social movements are emerging, questioning the role of the state and calling for stronger protections for social rights. Through this evolution, American society is preparing for an uncertain future, where the vigilance and commitment of citizens will be decisive in preserving democratic values ​​in the face of the ambitions of an executive power seeking control.

**The Breakup of ESA: A Worrying Turning Point for West Africa**

January 29, 2025 will mark a pivotal moment in West African history with the withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS. This departure, motivated by a cocktail of political and economic frustrations, raises questions about the capacity of regional institutions to adapt to new realities. While intra-regional trade, already weak, risks further collapsing, security in the region could also suffer, increasing isolation in the face of a growing security crisis. This change could also pave the way for new international alliances, however risky. In short, this defection should not be seen as a simple withdrawal, but as an opportunity to rethink regional cooperation, essential for a peaceful and prosperous future.

**The Political Storm: François Bayrou and the Migration Debate in France**

François Bayrou’s recent statements on the “feeling of migratory submersion” have exacerbated tensions already present in the French political landscape. This phenomenon is not limited to a simple quantitative question, but highlights deep fears and perceptions often manipulated by political discourse. With nearly 300,000 residence permits issued in 2021, French people’s fears about immigration are fueled by the idea that new arrivals could harm the economy, despite data indicating their positive contribution.

The rapid reaction of the Socialist Party, which suspended budget negotiations to respond to these remarks, testifies to the growing polarization on this issue. Migration tensions risk strengthening populist voices and fostering a climate of hostility towards migrants.

However, beyond the controversies, France must adopt a constructive and innovative approach to migration. Thinking about coherent integration policies and encouraging intercultural dialogue are crucial steps to transform fear into opportunity. In a Europe facing major migration challenges, France must position itself as a leader, by proposing a vision based on solidarity and openness.

Faced with these challenges, it is essential to initiate a collective reflection inviting us to go beyond traditional political divisions. Migration, far from being a threat, can be seen as an opportunity to enrich our society. The time has come to redefine the discourse on immigration in France, based on human values ​​and a genuine commitment to building a more united and diverse society.

### Kinshasa in Ebullition: A Collective Mourning that Shakes the Capital

On January 28, Kinshasa was the scene of moving and powerful demonstrations, born of anger at the human losses suffered in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo. That day, thousands of Congolese, dressed in mourning, paralyzed traffic by erecting barricades, thus expressing their despair in the face of recurring aggression and international inaction.

With burning tires on the city’s avenues, they demanded recognition and justice, while denouncing the feeling of abandonment by the great powers. The economic repercussions of these unrest are already being felt, with a rise in the prices of basic necessities.

In a context where community tensions are rekindling, the situation highlights a collective quest for dignity and peace. As the voice of the people rises, it constitutes an urgent call to listen, both for the government and for international bodies. This popular mobilization could well become a turning point, marked by the hope of a shared future and true reconciliation. The fight for recognition of the suffering of the Congolese people has only just begun.

**Parliamentary oversight of mining companies in Sakania: a turning point towards transparency and social justice?**

On January 27, 2025, a delegation of national deputies, led by Serge Chembo Nkonde, launched a parliamentary oversight of mining companies in Sakania, revealing the tensions between economic exploitation and workers’ rights. During this mission, the visit to the Jiayou company, widely criticized for its labor rights practices, highlighted the urgency of strict regulation in a sector often singled out for its violations.

With nearly 60% of workers in the mining sector facing precarious conditions, the resource-rich DRC must imperatively reconcile profitability and social justice. Nkonde’s speech and the involvement of unions offer hope for change, promising sanctions for non-compliance and increased attention to employee feedback.

At the same time, environmental issues are emerging as a priority, with destructive practices calling for increased ecological responsibility within businesses. While this parliamentary initiative could lay the foundations for a sustainable operating model, its success will depend on continued commitment to monitoring and enforcing existing laws, transforming monitoring into a genuine driver of change for human rights and the preservation of natural resources in the DRC.

### PALU Declaration: A Call for Sovereignty and Cohesion in the DRC

On January 28, 2023, the Unified Lumumbist Party (PALU) made itself heard by vigorously denouncing Rwandan military incursions into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Through a poignant speech by its Deputy Permanent Secretary, Anicet Mifia, PALU highlighted the devastating consequences of these interferences on national sovereignty and the economic well-being of the Congolese. Beyond simple military defense, PALU advocates a national consensus including all stakeholders to ensure lasting peace, while emphasizing the imperative of a commitment from the international community in the face of violations in the DRC. The party also calls for autonomous management of the country’s natural resources, in order to build economic sovereignty that would alleviate the suffering of the Congolese people. In short, this declaration could mark a decisive turning point, offering hope for renewal for a nation seeking justice and stability in the face of persistent internal and external challenges.

### Reorganization of the Military Command in North Kivu: A Humanitarian Emergency at Stake

North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo is plunged into an alarming humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by armed conflicts, particularly those linked to the M23 group. Faced with this situation, the Bureau of the National Assembly has called for an immediate reorganization of the military command, raising questions about the sustainability of these measures in a context of historical militarization and government inefficiency.

In parallel, the need for a humanitarian corridor is emerging as nearly 5 million Congolese are displaced, and basic services remain largely absent. These challenges, coupled with fragile regional diplomacy, require not only a military response but also a collective commitment to address the root causes of this crisis. The situation in North Kivu is a reminder that security goes well beyond military force: it requires integrated and sustained solutions for a sustainable and peaceful future in the DRC.

**Let’s join forces: Bahati Lukwebo’s call for the DRC**

In a climate of growing tensions in Goma, Bahati Lukwebo, leader of Afdc-A, launches a vibrant call for the unity of the Congolese in the face of Rwandan aggression. At the crossroads between armed conflict and the need for cohesion, his message transcends political rivalries and calls for collective mobilization. The complex history of the DRC, marked by conflicts for several decades, reminds us that the fight for sovereignty is not limited to military defense, but also requires a strong citizen dynamic.

As threats continue to weigh on the nation, Lukwebo evokes a future where resistance is rooted in solidarity and community resilience. This delicate period could also be an opportunity to revive the commitment of civil society, a key player in inclusive dialogue and the promotion of human rights. In the face of the prevailing uncertainty, the Congolese are called to come together, not only to fight the common enemy, but also to build a common future based on unity and dignity. This is a challenge to every citizen: let us unite to rebuild our country.

### Gabon: A Decisive Turning Point Towards a New Political Landscape

Gabon is heading toward a key presidential election, scheduled for April 12, 2024, marking a decisive moment in a political transition initiated by the August 2023 coup. Jean-Remy Yama, newly released and leader of the National Party for Work and Progress, represents an alternative to the former ruling Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG). As the latter faces growing criticism and unpopularity, the PDG’s secretary general is calling for a return to constitutional order, but the absence of a genuine reassessment of old practices raises doubts.

In this tense climate, civil society and voters are seeing their potential for influence grow, raising hopes for change. Concerns such as social inequality and corruption must be addressed to regain the trust of citizens, who often feel disconnected from the political process. As actors reposition themselves, the upcoming election could either reinforce internal struggles or pave the way for more inclusive governance. Gabon is at a turning point: the future of its politics will depend on genuine engagement and authentic dialogue between leaders and the population.