66 years of DRC independence: bishop warns of nation’s collapse without unity
- Politics
As the Democratic Republic of the Congo commemorates its 66th independence anniversary, Archbishop Fulgence Muteba Mugalu of Lubumbashi and President of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), delivered a powerful message urging national reconciliation, forgiveness, and cohesion. Speaking during a special mass at the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Lubumbashi, the prelate issued a stark warning: the country risks losing its future if it does not embrace lasting peace.
Unity as the cornerstone of progress
Addressing religious leaders, Catholic faithful, and dignitaries gathered for the national celebration, Mgr Fulgence Muteba called on Congolese citizens to reflect deeply on the nation’s trajectory. He emphasized that true progress can only be achieved through collective consensus, mutual forgiveness, and a commitment to the common good.
« We must become a country that is respected and dignified. To achieve this, we need a consensus to build lasting peace, we must forgive one another, reconcile, and strengthen our national cohesion based on the philosophy of living together. If we fail to take this path, the risk of losing this country is very real. We have been warned. »
Peace as the foundation of DRC’s future
In a context marked by persistent security challenges, political tensions, and deep societal divides, the head of the Congolese Catholic Church highlighted the urgency of a collective awakening. For him, the greatness of the DRC can only be secured if its people prioritize dialogue, mutual forgiveness, and the relentless pursuit of shared prosperity.
The Archbishop’s message underscores the critical need to overcome divisions and forge a national consensus capable of anchoring lasting peace and preserving the country’s unity. He stressed that no political, economic, or institutional reform can succeed without first establishing a culture of togetherness.
José Mukendi