The Parti Social-Démocrate Vert (PSDV) has closely monitored the recent announcement regarding the upcoming inclusive national political dialogue in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In this context, the PSDV commends the Head of State’s expressed commitment to engage in consultations with all social and political forces across the nation. This initiative aims to strengthen national cohesion by fostering collective deliberation, which is crucial for safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country, currently severely impacted by Rwandan aggression.
Consequently, the Parti Social-Démocrate Vert emphasizes that this forum must not overlook the fundamental root cause of the prevailing crisis: the unjust aggression our nation is enduring.
To ensure the success and effectiveness of this critical process, the PSDV presents the following recommendations, serving as suggested terms of reference for the said dialogue:
- Concerning the objective
While acknowledging other significant internal political matters, this major consultation should primarily focus on the formation of a broad patriotic front against the aggression targeting our country.
- Regarding the venue
The dialogue must take place within the national territory of the DRC.
- On participation
The Parti Social-Démocrate Vert reaffirms its support for the principle of inclusivity, provided it adheres to realistic and structured participation modalities that align with the DRC’s international commitments.
Domestically, the dialogue will involve representatives from the political majority, the non-armed opposition, and civil society, with the addition of other prominent political figures. For the armed opposition, the PSDV advocates for continued separate discussions with government representatives abroad. These specific talks should aim for the strict implementation of commitments made under the Doha process (disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of armed groups) and the Washington agreement, without prejudice to the effective enforcement of the binding obligations stemming from United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773, which serves as an essential roadmap for a lasting resolution to the conflict.
- Regarding moderation
Given that this is a national dialogue, the Parti Social-Démocrate Vert believes it is imperative for the Head of State to play a leading role in overseeing the proceedings. This is in his capacity as the nation’s representative and the embodiment of national unity, prerogatives granted by Article 69 of the Constitution.
In this role, the Head of State should appoint an individual with sufficient credibility among all dialogue stakeholders to facilitate the discussions. This facilitator will be supported by representatives from various religious denominations (Catholic, Protestant, Kimbanguist, Muslim, and Congo Revival Church) for specific tasks.
- On observation
The presence of representatives from the African Union and the United Nations as observers is necessary due to their direct involvement in the process of resolving the crisis caused by the aggression.
Indeed, certain conclusions from the dialogue will be presented to these international institutions as advocacy, particularly to ensure the effective application of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2773.
In light of these considerations, the Parti Social-Démocrate Vert reiterates its readiness to contribute to the success of the dialogue and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to restoring territorial integrity and the sacred defense of the Homeland.
Léonard SHE OKITUNDU
National President
