In a sharply worded open letter addressed to President Félix Tshisekedi on June 30, 2026, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Denis Mukwege delivered a scathing assessment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s governance over the past seven years. His remarks focused on critical areas—including persistent insecurity in the eastern provinces, the controversial implementation of the state of emergency, diplomatic missteps, and stalled security sector reforms—that continue to undermine national stability and public confidence.
The renowned physician and human rights advocate urgently appealed to the head of state to prioritize national unity, uphold the Constitution, and place peace, justice, and civilian protection at the heart of government policy. Mukwege’s message came on the eve of the country’s Independence Day, a moment traditionally marked by reflection on progress, yet one he described as devoid of meaningful achievements.
Confronting deep-seated crises: insecurity, impunity, and weak governance
Mukwege did not mince his words in describing the state of the nation. He declared unequivocally that there was “nothing to celebrate” during the Independence Day observances, pointing to a nation trapped in cycles of violence, suffering, and territorial vulnerability. His critique extended to several key policy areas under President Tshisekedi’s administration since 2019.
He particularly questioned the effectiveness of the state of emergency measures in the eastern DRC, highlighting how prolonged instability has eroded public trust and deepened humanitarian crises. Mukwege also expressed concerns over the government’s diplomatic engagements, arguing that some regional and international partnerships have failed to translate into tangible improvements on the ground.
The letter underscored the persistent failure to dismantle cycles of corruption and impunity. Mukwege lamented the lack of progress in transitional justice, notably the stalled establishment of a special tribunal to address grave crimes committed across the country. Without accountability, he warned, sustainable peace and reconciliation remain unattainable goals.
Preserving sovereignty and rejecting constitutional change
Beyond immediate security concerns, Mukwege raised alarms about threats to national sovereignty. He cautioned that reckless constitutional reforms could further destabilize the country and divert attention from critical state-building priorities.
He urged President Tshisekedi to seize what he termed “the final opportunity” to steer the nation toward lasting stability by strengthening the rule of law, protecting civilians, and fostering inclusive governance. Mukwege’s appeal signals a growing chorus of concern among civic leaders over the direction of the country’s political trajectory.
