DRC: C64 coalition dismisses tshisekedi’s national dialogue proposal

Reporting from Kinshasa, the C64 coalition has unequivocally rejected President Félix Tshisekedi’s proposal for a national dialogue, branding it a mere distraction from the pressing challenges confronting the citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The opposition firmly asserts that the current administration is offering ineffective political maneuvers rather than fostering a truly inclusive national dialogue.

Following five hours of intensive consultations, the unified stance of the opposition was articulated by Martin Fayulu. He declared, “The Congolese people are not easily deceived. These repeated consultations initiated by Félix Tshisekedi neither address the urgency of ongoing conflict, escalating insecurity, the pervasive health crisis, nor the profound social distress experienced by Congolese citizens. Instead, they divert the nation’s focus from its genuine priorities.”

Opposition leaders further allege that President Tshisekedi is “cynically preoccupied” with securing an extension of his tenure beyond his second term, which is slated to conclude in 2028. “The government is actively laying the groundwork for a prolonged stay in power, exploiting the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the eastern region as a political commodity,” they asserted. “The C64 stands firmly against Félix Tshisekedi’s ambitions, accusing him of being prepared to consolidate the balkanization of the country, even as his constitutionally mandated term concludes in precisely 754 days.”

In response to what it describes as a dangerous political deviation, the C64 coalition is now committed to mobilizing the populace. The coalition has reiterated its call for a significant national march, scheduled for September 15th, aiming to counter the maneuvers of the ruling party and advocate for genuine democratic principles.