Christophe Lutundula, former vice-Premier minister and foreign minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has defended Kinshasa's offer to withdraw the candidacy of Juliana Lumumba for the position of secretary-general of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). He made these remarks during a live broadcast on November 14, ahead of the 20th Francophonie Summit in Phnom Penh. Lutundula emphasized that the offer was made in a personal capacity and was intended to promote peace and stability within the organization.
Lutundula refused to view the proposal as a sign of weakness, stating that it demonstrates the DRC's sense of responsibility towards the Francophone community. He stressed that the DRC's goal is not to block the organization's progress but to ensure its unity and effectiveness. The former foreign minister also expressed his support for the statement made by the Congolese minister of state for foreign affairs, highlighting the importance of allowing the OIF to fulfill its missions as outlined in its charter.
According to Lutundula, the DRC's offer was made in response to a request from French President Emmanuel Macron. He explained that the DRC is willing to cooperate to achieve the organization's objectives, without seeking to obstruct its progress. Lutundula also recalled that the DRC had previously taken on the responsibility of hosting the IX Games of the Francophonie in Kinshasa, after other countries had withdrawn their bids.
The candidacy of Juliana Lumumba, daughter of Patrice Emery Lumumba, was seen by some as an attempt to prevent the reappointment of Rwandan Louise Mushikiwabo. Lutundula denied that the goal was to block Mushikiwabo, stating that the primary objective was to elect a Congolese candidate. He also linked the candidacy to the ongoing conflict between the DRC and Rwanda, criticizing the OIF for its silence on the issue.
Lutundula addressed criticisms of Juliana Lumumba's profile, with some questioning her experience in international organizations. He argued that experience is not solely defined by past accomplishments, but also by an individual's present and future capabilities. He highlighted Lumumba's background as a minister and her experience leading an important African economic organization.
The offer to withdraw Lumumba's candidacy was rejected by Rwanda, with Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe stating that no country has the right to dictate to another country to withdraw its candidacy. The outcome of the OIF summit remains uncertain, with the decision on the next secretary-general expected to be announced on Monday.
Lutundula concluded by emphasizing the importance of balancing ambition with realism in international diplomacy. He expressed the DRC's legitimate ambition to have a greater presence on the international stage, while also acknowledging the need for pragmatism and cooperation. The DRC's position on the OIF candidacy reflects its commitment to promoting peace and stability within the organization.
Key points
- The DRC's offer to withdraw Juliana Lumumba's candidacy was made in response to a request from French President Emmanuel Macron.
- Lutundula refused to view the proposal as a sign of weakness, stating that it demonstrates the DRC's sense of responsibility towards the Francophone community.
- The outcome of the OIF summit remains uncertain, with the decision on the next secretary-general expected to be announced on Monday.
