Several opposition parties in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have decided to boycott the ongoing political consultations initiated by President Félix Tshisekedi, which aim to form a national unity government. In statements to local media, these parties expressed skepticism about President Tshisekedi’s approach, arguing that it will not address the current security crisis but rather reinforce “a government in crisis of legitimacy.”

Opposition members have labeled the consultations as a “political charade” and a “forward flight of power,” asserting their support for an inclusive dialogue initiative recommended by the bishops of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and pastors from the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC). They believe this initiative could provide a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.

Among those refusing to engage in any parallel dialogue process is the political party “Ensemble pour la République,” led by Moise Katumbi. Hervé Diakese, spokesperson for the party, emphasized that ecclesiastical authorities have successfully engaged with all stakeholders, including both armed and unarmed opposition groups.

He stated, “We support any initiative these authorities will initiate, and we believe it is high time to take responsibility and understand that the situation in our country no longer requires cosmetic solutions or a musical chairs game with positions to assign.”

This sentiment was echoed by other opposition parties such as ECIDE (led by Martin Fayulu), LGD (Matata Ponyo Mapon), and Envol (Delly Sessanga), all of whom called on Félix Tshisekedi to prioritize the people’s interests over his ambitions.

Meanwhile, the FCC, the political coalition of former President Joseph Kabila, has questioned the necessity of this new initiative given that several others are already underway. The FCC has refused to participate in what they describe as a service aimed more at legitimizing and defending the current government than serving the cause of lasting peace for the diverse Congolese population.

The DRC has witnessed numerous opposition protests in recent weeks, reflecting widespread discontent with President Tshisekedi’s handling of conflicts in eastern cities like Goma.

Since January, M23 rebels have escalated their decade-long conflict with Congolese forces, capturing key cities such as Goma and Bukavu. This situation has raised concerns about a potential regional war involving neighboring countries whose militaries are also present.

Efforts to achieve a ceasefire collapsed last week after M23 rebels withdrew from talks facilitated by Angola, condemning European Union sanctions against their leaders. Following Angola’s president Joao Lourenço’s withdrawal as mediator on Monday, southern and eastern African leaders announced a joint summit to establish a panel of five former African presidents tasked with seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

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