Félix Tshisekedi urges balanced response to South African xenophobia and calls for national mobilisation in Congo

President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo addressed the surge of xenophobic violence in South Africa, urging the South African authorities to manage migration and public order with humanity, responsibility and restraint while respecting the country’s sovereign right to set its own policies. He highlighted the need for an "balanced" approach consistent with African solidarity, after protesters had demanded that foreign nationals leave the country by June 30 and tensions erupted in South African cities.

On June 30, 2026, marking the 66th anniversary of Congo’s independence, Tshisekedi delivered a national speech calling for a comprehensive mobilisation of the Congolese people. He stressed the urgency of peace, stability and development, citing security threats from armed groups in the east, a resurgence of Ebola, energy transition challenges and the preparation for a constitutional referendum. The president appealed for unity, discipline and civic responsibility to build a prosperous future for the Democratic Republic of Congo.