Kabila Says DR Congo Is ‘In Peril’

Former DR Congo president Joseph Kabila has warned that the country’s situation is deteriorating, accusing the government of poor governance and calling for inclusive national dialogue to address the ongoing crisis.

Kabila criticises government leadership

Speaking on Friday through his Reconstruct the DRC YouTube channel, Kabila said conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo had “steadily worsened”. Without naming President Félix Tshisekedi, he criticised what he described as a concentration of power in the hands of the head of state. Kabila argued that the country was being governed as though it were private property, alleging that the system prioritised maintaining political control over the welfare of citizens. He also accused the authorities of institutionalising tribalism and nepotism, discriminating against minorities and mismanaging public assets.

Calls for political solution to eastern conflict

The former president criticised the government’s approach to fighting in eastern DR Congo, arguing that continued military operations would not resolve the country’s wider political and security challenges. He accused Tshisekedi of refusing to engage with initiatives seeking a political settlement and insisted that dialogue was essential to restoring peace and strengthening national unity. Kabila pointed to efforts by regional organisations in eastern, southern and central Africa, as well as the African Union and partner countries, as part of the broader push for a resolution.

Kabila renews call for national dialogue

Kabila reiterated his demand for an inclusive national dialogue, saying it was necessary to reconcile communities, rebuild national cohesion and restore democracy and the rule of law. In May last year, he presented a 12-point plan that included ending the conflict, restoring state authority, reconciling communities, neutralising armed groups and withdrawing foreign troops.

Tshisekedi launches dialogue initiative

Kabila’s latest statement follows Tshisekedi’s launch in August of a process called the “National Dialogue for Peace, Cohesion, and the Refounding of the State”. According to the presidency, the initiative is expected to run for no more than three months, beginning at the grassroots level before progressing to national institutions. However, the proposed format has faced criticism from Kabila’s political allies, who dispute the arrangements and are demanding guarantees that the process will include all relevant groups.

Fighting continues in eastern DR Congo

Meanwhile, fighting continues between the Congolese army and AFC/M23 rebels, who are supported by Rwanda, according to the source. Mediation efforts led by Washington and Doha have yet to produce a final resolution.