Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has reiterated his commitment to inclusive and peaceful dialogue among all citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stressing that national unity is now “more than ever a fundamental requirement.”
Speaking in his New Year’s address to the diplomatic corps in Kinshasa on Saturday, Tshisekedi made the remarks against the backdrop of ongoing fighting in the eastern part of the country between government forces and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.
The idea of an inter-Congolese national dialogue, advocated by sections of the opposition and recently supported by Angolan President João Lourenço, has gained renewed attention. Tshisekedi said he was open to such a process but outlined strict conditions for it to take place.
He insisted that any dialogue must be held within the country, remain under institutional oversight, and must not challenge his legitimacy or that of institutions elected through universal suffrage. This is despite continued opposition claims disputing his election and criticizing his governance.
The president also stressed that the dialogue should not seek to overturn judicial rulings that have already been issued. “Justice will follow its normal course with rigour, to the end, and without complacency, in order to honour the memory of those who have unjustly fallen as a result of the attack,” he said.
His comments come amid controversy surrounding former president Joseph Kabila, who was sentenced to death in absentia in September by a military court on charges of war crimes, treason and crimes against humanity. The ruling relates to allegations that Kabila supported the advance of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo, claims he has denied.
Looking ahead, Tshisekedi said 2026 would be a decisive year for the country. He outlined priorities including lasting security in the east, the restoration of state authority, accelerated governance reforms, economic transformation and the strengthening of national unity.
