DRC national dialogue proposal

President Félix Tshisekedi has formalized his proposal for a national dialogue aimed at peace, cohesion, and state refoundation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The initiative is designed to last a maximum of three months, beginning with consultations across the country’s 26 provinces before concluding with national sessions in Kinshasa. The process intends to address deep-seated crises, including security issues in the east, rather than serving as a reaction to protests.

The proposal has triggered significant political friction. The opposition coalition, Article 64 (C64), has rejected the initiative, accusing the president of using the consultations as a maneuver to change the constitution and secure a third term in office. In response, the C64 has called for a truly inclusive dialogue and scheduled a national mobilization for September 15.

In contrast, government officials and certain political groups, such as the UDPS and RCET-CPS, have welcomed the move. Supporters emphasize that the dialogue should prioritize national interest over political power-sharing. Government representatives have clarified that the process will exclude armed opposition groups and will not be used to overturn sovereign electoral choices or grant general amnesty for serious crimes.