DRC president unveils inclusive national dialogue led by religious leaders

In a landmark announcement, President Félix Tshisekedi has declared the launch of an inclusive national dialogue designed to foster national cohesion and strengthen the country’s unity. The initiative, unveiled following a meeting with representatives of major religious denominations, marks a significant step toward addressing the nation’s pressing challenges.

The dialogue, described as peaceful, inclusive, and firmly rooted in republican values, aims to consolidate national unity while upholding the Constitution and the country’s institutions. A statement from the presidency emphasized the president’s commitment to fostering an environment where all voices can be heard in a constructive manner.

Religious leaders endorse the initiative

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa, conveyed the religious delegation’s enthusiastic support for the president’s vision. Speaking on behalf of the group, he expressed gratitude to the head of state, highlighting the importance of dialogue in promoting peace and national cohesion.

“We are deeply encouraged by this announcement and stand ready to support the process,” the cardinal stated. He underscored the necessity of unity among all citizens to tackle the ongoing crisis in the eastern regions of the country, which he attributed to external interference.

A call for unity in the face of regional instability

The religious leaders emphasized that the dialogue represents a crucial step toward addressing the conflict in the eastern provinces, particularly in North Kivu and South Kivu, where rebel groups continue to pose significant challenges. The cardinal reiterated the need for a unified Congolese response to these threats, stressing that the nation must speak with one voice.

The meeting, held at the Cité de l’Union africaine in Kinshasa, brought together prominent religious figures, including:

• Mgr André Bokundoa, representing the Church of Christ in Congo;
• Archbishop Ejiba Yamampia, of the Revival Church of Congo;
• Sheikh Abdallah Mangala, of the Muslim Community;
• Mgr Donatien Nshole, spokesperson for the Catholic Church;
• Pastor Éric Senga, spokesperson for the Church of Christ in Congo.

Next steps and roadmap

The religious delegation accepted the mission entrusted to them by the president to guide and facilitate the dialogue process. Cardinal Ambongo affirmed their commitment to advancing this initiative as a moral and spiritual duty, urging political actors—both from the ruling party and the opposition—to actively participate in the process.

While the president’s announcement signals a strong commitment to dialogue, key details such as the timeline, format, and participants remain to be finalized. The religious leaders stressed that the conditions and modalities of the dialogue will be determined progressively, ensuring that all stakeholders have a voice in shaping the process.

Regional and international context

The announcement follows a series of diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in the DRC. Earlier this month, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, as the current chair of the African Union, hosted consultations in Bujumbura with Congolese opposition figures and religious leaders, calling for flexibility and a commitment to dialogue.

Additionally, Cardinal Ambongo met with Congolese President Denis Sassou-Nguesso of the Republic of Congo in Brazzaville to discuss the political and security situation in the DRC. These engagements reflect growing regional recognition of the need for a unified approach to resolving the crisis.

Challenges and expectations

While the president’s initiative has been met with optimism, significant challenges remain. Opposition groups have called for the release of political prisoners, the cessation of perceived politically motivated prosecutions, and the restoration of public freedoms. They have also urged the government to abandon any plans to amend the Constitution before the dialogue begins.

In late June, President Tshisekedi reaffirmed his openness to dialogue but cautioned that it must not be used as a tool to undermine the country’s institutions or subvert the popular will expressed through constitutional processes.

The religious leaders’ involvement in the dialogue process is seen as a critical step toward building trust and ensuring that the initiative remains inclusive and transparent. As the nation awaits further details, the focus remains on fostering a peaceful and constructive environment where all Congolese can contribute to the country’s future.