The International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) is set to elect its Secretary-General during its November 15-16, 2026 summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. While French diplomacy appears to endorse the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s candidate, Juliana Amato Lumumba, fresh revelations suggest Paris is actively lobbying for former Romanian Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos as a compromise candidate.
This strategic maneuver comes as France finds itself in an awkward position between two formidable contenders: the incumbent Rwandan Secretary-General, Louise Mushikiwabo, and Juliana Lumumba, a former Congolese Minister of Culture and the Arts. Insiders indicate that Paris views Ciolos as a neutral third option to break the deadlock.
But how can France justify pitting the Democratic Republic of the Congo against Rwanda—a nation that has openly distanced itself from the French language and just completed two consecutive terms at the helm of the OIF? The sheer scale of the DRC’s Francophone influence makes this comparison ludicrous.
With over 100 million French speakers, world-class francophone universities, and a thriving media landscape, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the beating heart of the Francophonie. If France cannot recognize these undeniable assets and instead resorts to undermining the DRC’s legitimate bid for leadership, then Kinshasa must reconsider its relationship with Paris.
Should Juliana Lumumba fail to secure the OIF’s top position due to French interference, the Democratic Republic of the Congo would be justified in taking decisive measures against France. As the world’s largest Francophone nation, the DRC deserves nothing less than respectful treatment from the former colonial power.
With 90 member states, the OIF is far more than a symbolic organization—it wields significant influence over the diplomatic balance between Francophone nations across Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Leadership here requires experience, neutrality, and genuine commitment. Juliana Amato Lumumba embodies these qualities, making her the natural choice to guide this vital cultural and political space.
