DRC National Dialogue Faces Opposition Over M23 Rebel Participation

Congolese political groups have voiced strong objections to the inclusion of the M23 rebel coalition in the upcoming national dialogue. The Rassemblement des compagnons d’Étienne Tshisekedi (RCET‑CPS), represented by Jean‑Pierre Lisanga Bonganga, argued that the M23 agenda serves Rwandan interests rather than Congolese ones and condemned any participation as an extension of Rwanda's aggression. The platform also invoked the memory of over ten million Congolese killed in the conflict.

Opposition leader Martin Fayulu of the ECiDé echoed calls for an inclusive, non‑balkanising dialogue, setting three non‑negotiable demands: no division of the country, no constitutional changes, and a truly national conversation. He warned that if the dialogue is not convened by 15 August, his coalition will resume its activities and insisted that armed groups such as M23 be treated as belligerents and included alongside civil society and political parties.