Category: Politics

### The reopening of the Congolese Parliament: a decisive turning point

On March 15, 2025, the People’s Palace of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will live a parliamentary reopening under tension. While Goma and Bukavu fall into the hands of the rebels of the M23/AFC, the need for a balance between security and economic recovery is essential. Faced with military emergencies, Parliament is called upon to play a central role, potentially marked by political maturity, where opposes and government engage in a constructive dialogue.

This historic moment could also invigorate citizen engagement, allowing voters to reaffirm their voices in a system often perceived as faulty. By promoting transparent dialogue platforms, such as Fatshimetrie.org, the Congolese Parliament could strengthen the confidence of citizens while striving to transform crises into opportunities. The challenge is immense: redefine relations between the people and their political elites while sailing towards a better future in the heart of a rich but tormented nation.

### DRC: Towards an inclusive dialogue for a real change?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a historic turning point with the Ensemble for the Republic, the party of Moïse Katumbi, with an inclusive dialogue. In a country plagued by decades of conflicts and corruption, this approach could offer a glimmer of hope for peace and development. This process invites not only political actors but also civil society to participate in a necessary reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of religious institutions in this dialogue.

However, the question remains: will this dialogue really be the long-awaited change of change? Although the 2018 peaceful transition has marked an advance, tensions persist and exacerbate economic instability. The involvement of regional mediators such as EAC and SADC becomes essential to strengthen legitimacy and prospects for lasting consensus.

Beyond immediate political issues, this dialogue poses a fundamental challenge: redefine Congolese national identity in a context of historical divisions. Moses Katumbi seems to want to unite all the Congolese around the common ideal of peace and well-being. The next few weeks will be crucial to see if this outstretched hand will be seized. The DRC has the opportunity to forge a future based on inclusiveness and solidarity. History has shown that real transformations arise from sincere dialogues and collective commitments. The road to a lasting peace begins here, at the crossroads.

### The parliamentary session of March: a crucial chance for the future of the DRC

On March 15, 2023, Congolese parliamentarians will resume their work at the Palais du Peuple de Kinshasa, at a time when the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faced unprecedented challenges. The fall of cities such as Goma, under the assault of the armed group M23/AFC supported by Rwanda, highlights not only a security crisis, but also the faults of the Congolese political class in front of a persistent threat. This session may well be a turning point: it must not only look at urgent security issues, but also establish solid foundations for a democracy in full reconstruction. The political opposition and the support of international bodies are essential to overcome the chronic instability of the country and meet the expectations of a people exhausted by decades of conflicts. In short, this session is not just a resumption of work, it is a golden opportunity to redefine the future of the DRC, provided that political actors show a real desire for change.

### demonstrations in Serbia: a turning point for democracy

Hundreds of thousands of Serbs have invaded the streets of Belgrade, united by a common cry: put an end to corruption and restore the rule of law. This protest movement, which marks a turning point in the country’s political history, testifies to a deep disenchantment vis-à-vis the government of Alexandar Vučić, in power for 13 years. In a complex socio-historical context, where the authoritarian past always influences nascent democracy, the demonstrators are not satisfied with a simple change of leaders; They require systemic reforms to restore confidence in institutions.

Rooted in popular impulse, this movement transcends social divisions, bringing together young and retired, intellectuals and workers. Inspired by other anti-corruption struggles in Eastern Europe, it draws a red wire of solidarity through the region. The government’s reaction remains crucial: faced with increasing pressure, it will have to choose between repression or commitment in a constructive dialogue.

While the impact of these demonstrations is emerging, the question remains: will the government be able to listen to the voices of the people and answer its call for a democratic future? Serbia, right now, does not only denounce corruption; She embodies the hope of justice and true respect for human rights, a dream shared by millions around the world.

** Seoul in boiling: The time for democratic choices **

The streets of Seoul are in turmoil while a vast protest_active_ brings together supporters and opponents of President Yoon Suk-Yeol, at the dawn of a crucial decision of the Constitutional Court which could lead to its dismissal. Beyond a simple political confrontation, this event underlines the underlying tensions of a South Korean democracy in search of identity, reviving the memories of the struggles spent for freedom. The declaration of the martial law by Yoon evokes painful memories of the 1980s, amplifying the urgency of the situation.

The mobilization is reinforced by the strategic use of social networks, allowing thousands of citizens to unite to defend their rights in the face of what they perceive as an authoritarian shift. This dynamic transcends political questions, also raising pressing economic and social concerns. The diversity of voices participating in demonstrations-students, workers, artists-testifies to general discontent which goes far beyond support or opposition to the president.

And while the South Korean political scene is marked by complex geopolitical issues, including relations with China and North Korea, the court’s decision could have deep repercussions on national unity. At this historic crossroads, Seoul is not only fighting for the survival of his democracy but also for the definition of his future. Current events promise not only decisive for South Korea, but also as a source of inspiration for other countries in search of justice and freedom.

### Parliamentary ethics in South Africa: towards a necessary overhaul

The recent sanction of nine South African deputies, including Minister Maropene Ramokgopa, for non-disclacing their financial interests, highlights the crisis of confidence that rages within the country’s political institutions. While only 27 % of citizens express their confidence in their elected officials, these recurring shortcomings amplify an already anchored climate of distrust. The crucial question is not only that of the sanction, but the need to establish a real culture of responsibility among parliamentarians.

South Africa must wonder: is it a culture of impunity or inadmissible negligence? International examples show that strengthening ethical standards and transparency practices is essential to restore public confidence. Measures such as compulsory training for deputies and systematic audits of declarations of interest could represent a first step towards an ethical culture flesh.

In this critical period, the South African Parliament has a unique opportunity to reinvent itself. By adopting robust ethical standards, he could not only regain the confidence of citizens but also strengthen the legitimacy of South African democracy. Accountability must be perceived as a collective commitment, essential for improving governance.

** Kisangani in boiling: student revolt in the face of authority **

On March 13, the Higher Institute of Buildings and Public Works (IBTP) of Kisangani was the scene of scuffles between students and police, launched by the controversial arrest of their academic secretary general. Barricades and violent clashes have revealed a deep university discomfort and growing distrust of authority deemed deaf to the claims of Congolese youth. This climate of tension, amplified by brutal police interventions, highlights a break in trust between the security forces and the students, invited to parade to express their despair in the face of an education system in crisis. In a national context where academic institutions become protest, Kisangani’s events highlight the urgent need for a constructive dialogue between the authorities and the educational community, to build a more inclusive and respectful future of citizens. These demonstrations may well mark the beginning of a collective awareness for an essential reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

** The new German political configuration: a challenge for the opposition of the Greens **

The German political scene, marked by the agreement between the CDU and the SPD, sees the Greens relegated to the role of opposition. This transition raises crucial issues, especially on the way in which the opposition can be both critical and constructive in the face of pressing environmental and social challenges. Franziska Brantner, figurehead of the Greens, warns against an “backtrack” on essential themes and questions the balance of new investments, fearing that they only benefit the richer.

Faced with these domestic issues, the need for European cohesion is also felt, at a time when collective defense must be accompanied by a strengthened economic and technological strategy. In this context, the Greens have the opportunity to become the engine of a proactive alternative, by offering innovative solutions like a New Deal Green which could inspire a sustainable Germany within a united Europe. By positioning themselves as creators of ideas rather than simple criticism, the Greens could not only legitimize their role, but also redefine the function of the opposition on the old continent.

** Guinea: Towards a confrontation between control and political freedom **

Guinea is effervescence after the shock announcement of the dissolution of around twenty political parties, including that of former president Alpha Condé. This decision by the authorities, in a context of military regime in place since 2021, is part of a centralized evaluation and control dynamic, aimed at anticipating any dispute movements. This blow brought to political plurality, already started by contested decades of governance, raises crucial questions about the future of democracy in the country.

In parallel, the promise of increased internet access via initiatives like Starlink in Chad highlights the challenges of inclusive digital development, while echoing the current social struggles. The recent publication of “The Last of the Arts” by Fary Ndao also illustrates the urgency of a critical reflection on Guinean politics through a literary approach.

At the intersection of politics, technology and culture, Guinea is at a crucial crossroads. In an environment where freedom is often repressed, the resilience of the Guinean people and their commitment to an inclusive democracy appear more than ever. The quest for social peace and diversity of voices may well depend on the ability of citizens to imagine a future without the threat of authoritarian control.

### Land conflict in Kabambare: towards a necessary reconciliation

The recent land conflict between the villages Lumamba and Kavundaganya, in the territory of Kabambare, highlights social fractures and the challenges of governance in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The violence has left seven seriously injured and revealed acts of sexual violence, illustrating a trauma that goes beyond physical injuries. The Minister of the Interior, Lawamo Selemani, promised that the culprits would be brought to justice, but the distrust of the uninformed promises remains. The deputy Emedi Amuri proposes to favor a “customary solution”, stressing the importance of local dialogue in the resolution of land conflicts. In a context where more than 70 % of conflicts in the DRC are linked to the land, it is vital to reform resources management practices. Kabambare’s tragic events must be a catalyst to act in favor of peaceful coexistence, where land rights and justice are not empty words, but foundations for a common future.