In a landmark announcement, President Félix Tshisekedi has declared the launch of a comprehensive national inclusive dialogue, with religious leaders tasked to guide the process. The historic move follows a pivotal meeting with representatives of the country’s major faith communities at the Cité de l’Union africaine in Kinshasa.
The initiative aims to strengthen national cohesion and uphold constitutional principles, according to an official statement from the presidency. President Tshisekedi emphasized the dialogue’s role in fostering peace and unity amid ongoing challenges.
Religious leaders welcome the initiative
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa and spokesperson for the religious delegation, expressed strong support for the president’s vision. « We welcome this bold step and extend our deepest gratitude to the Head of State, » he stated, highlighting the dialogue’s potential to unite the nation.
« Our country needs harmony among its sons and daughters, » the cardinal remarked, underscoring the urgency of national unity to address the eastern conflict, which he attributed to external interference. The ongoing crisis in the North Kivu and South Kivu regions has been a persistent challenge, with Kinshasa accusing Rwanda of backing rebel factions—a claim Kigali has repeatedly denied.
The religious leaders have accepted their mandate to facilitate the dialogue, framing it as a moral and social responsibility. « We commit to advancing this initiative with dedication, calling on all political actors—both in power and opposition—to actively participate, » Ambongo added.
Key figures and next steps
The meeting brought together prominent faith leaders, including:
- Bishop André Bokundoa (representing the Church of Christ in Congo)
- Archbishop Ejiba Yamampia (Church of Revival in Congo)
- Sheikh Abdallah Mangala (Muslim Community)
- Bishop Donatien Nshole (spokesperson for the Catholic Church)
- Pastor Éric Senga (spokesperson for the Church of Christ in Congo)
While the dialogue’s framework remains under development, a roadmap is expected to be published in the coming days. The announcement follows extensive consultations with political and religious stakeholders, including regional engagements.
Regional and international context
Earlier this month, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, then-chair of the African Union, hosted Congolese opposition leaders and faith representatives in Bujumbura, urging flexibility and dialogue. Additionally, Cardinal Ambongo met with Congo-Brazzaville’s President Denis Sassou-Nguesso in Brazzaville on July 9 to discuss the DRC’s political and security landscape.
Despite progress, critical questions remain unanswered: the dialogue’s timeline, format, participants, agenda, and safeguards for all stakeholders. Opposition factions have demanded the release of political prisoners, cessation of politically motivated prosecutions, restoration of public freedoms, and a halt to constitutional reform efforts before negotiations begin.
President Tshisekedi has reiterated his openness to dialogue but cautioned against using it to undermine institutions or subvert the constitutional will of the people.
