Denis Mukwege delivers harsh assessment of DRC leadership under Félix Tshisekedi
In a scathing open letter addressed to President Félix Tshisekedi on June 30, 2026, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege condemned the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s governance since the leader’s 2019 inauguration. The renowned physician and activist highlighted persistent security failures in the East, flawed state-of-emergency policies, questionable diplomatic alliances, and glaring gaps in security sector reform and national sovereignty protection.
Mukwege urged the President to prioritize national unity, constitutional integrity, and the welfare of citizens by placing peace, justice, and public protection at the heart of government action.
Condemning corruption and impunity
In his strongly worded correspondence, the 2018 Nobel laureate stressed that the country has “nothing to celebrate” in the lead-up to Independence Day. Mukwege portrayed the DRC as mired in deep crisis—plagued by insecurity, civilian suffering, and threats to territorial integrity. He scrutinized key decisions made since Tshisekedi took office in 2019, including the handling of emergency measures in conflict zones and controversial foreign policy choices with regional and global partners.
He also voiced frustration over stalled progress in combating impunity. Mukwege lamented the lack of meaningful action on transitional justice, particularly the failure to establish a special tribunal to prosecute grave crimes committed across the country.
No to constitutional reform
The former 2023 presidential contender warned of “serious risks to national sovereignty” and urged the Head of State to abandon any constitutional revision plans. Mukwege framed the current moment as a pivotal opportunity to steer the nation toward lasting stability by restoring peace, protecting civilians, strengthening the rule of law, and enhancing governance.
In closing, he urged President Tshisekedi to seize this “final chance” to guide the DRC out of crisis and rebuild trust through decisive, people-centered leadership.