Following a high-level meeting with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, the Coalition Article 64 for the defense of constitutional order (C64) concluded its diplomatic visit to Bujumbura on July 9, 2026. The coalition’s leadership, led by Martin Fayulu, clarified that their engagement was not a negotiated compromise but an unexpected invitation extended by the Burundian head of state in his capacity as current chair of the African Union.
The C64 delegation emphasized that any meaningful political dialogue must first address core constitutional and democratic principles. Their stance is non-negotiable: the immediate abandonment of constitutional amendments, the unconditional release of all political prisoners, the halting of politically motivated prosecutions, and the full restoration of public freedoms. These conditions, they argue, are fundamental to resolving the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s crisis, which has persisted due to the neglect of its political roots in previous peace efforts.
For the coalition, respect for the Constitution, adherence to the rule of law, and recognition of the Congolese people’s sovereignty are non-negotiable pillars. They point to the current government’s constitutional reform agenda—amid ongoing conflict and territorial occupation—as a critical obstacle to stability. The C64 leaders remain steadfast in their opposition to these changes, vowing to uphold constitutional order while preparing for a peaceful march to the Palais de la Nation on July 22. Their ultimate demand: the resignation of President Félix Tshisekedi, whom they accuse of violating his constitutional oath.