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Several opposition parties in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have boycotted political consultations initiated by President Félix Tshisekedi to form a national unity government, arguing that the move fails to address the country’s security crisis and instead reinforces “a government in crisis of legitimacy.”
Opposition leaders dismiss the initiative as “a political charade and a forward flight of power.” Instead, they support an inclusive dialogue led by the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), believing it offers a more sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
Key Opposition Reactions
The political party Ensemble pour la République, led by Moïse Katumbi, has rejected any alternative dialogue outside of the bishops’ initiative.
“These ecclesiastical authorities have engaged with all stakeholders, including the armed and unarmed opposition, and their approach has gained support from regional heads of state and some Western partners,” said Hervé Diakese, spokesperson for Ensemble pour la République. “We must stop playing musical chairs with government positions and instead focus on genuine unity before forming a national unity government.”
Other opposition parties, including ECIDE (led by Martin Fayulu), LGD (Matata Ponyo Mapon), and Envol (Delly Sessanga), echoed similar sentiments, urging President Tshisekedi to “stop political maneuvering and prioritize the people’s interests over his ambitions.”
Meanwhile, the Front Commun pour le Congo (FCC), the political group of former President Joseph Kabila, has also declined to participate, questioning the need for yet another initiative when multiple peace efforts are already underway.
Escalating Conflict in Eastern DRC
The opposition’s rejection of Tshisekedi’s consultations comes amid growing protests against his government’s handling of the escalating conflict in the east.
Since January, the M23 rebels have launched a major offensive, capturing key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, and several other towns in eastern DRC. The worsening crisis has raised fears of a broader regional conflict, as neighboring countries have deployed troops in the area.
Efforts to broker a ceasefire collapsed last week after the M23 withdrew from Angola-led talks, condemning European Union sanctions against its leaders. Angola’s President João Lourenço subsequently stepped down as the key mediator. In response, southern and eastern African leaders announced the formation of a panel of five former African presidents to seek a peaceful resolution.
As diplomatic efforts continue, opposition parties remain firm in their stance—calling for a truly inclusive national dialogue, rather than what they see as an attempt to prop up a struggling government.
