The President of Bloc-RDC, Me Patient Bashombe Matabishi, has hailed the Kasangulu Manifesto as a significant contribution to the national debate on refounding the Democratic Republic of Congo. In an interview on Radio Okapi's Parole aux auditeurs, Bashombe emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in national dialogue. The manifesto, a collective reflection on the country's future, proposes several solutions for national recovery, including restoring state authority and promoting good governance.
The Kasangulu Manifesto, launched by the citizen-led platform Bloc-RDC, aims to foster a national conversation on the country's challenges and possible solutions. Bashombe stressed that a sustainable refoundation process cannot be achieved without active citizen participation. He called for unity among Congolese people, urging those in Kinshasa to stand in solidarity with their compatriots facing crises, particularly in the eastern DRC.
Bashombe invited civil society organizations, youth movements, and community structures to take ownership of the manifesto. He noted that the initiative has moved beyond conferences and reflection frameworks, with awareness-raising actions now taking place in public spaces. According to Bashombe, the manifesto is gaining traction, shifting from confined spaces to the streets and from reflection to citizen engagement.
While some Radio Okapi listeners praised the citizen-led initiative, others expressed reservations, emphasizing the need for rigor, credibility, and independence. The manifesto's promoters aim to facilitate inclusive dialogue, allowing all Congolese people, including those affected by armed conflicts, to contribute to finding durable solutions to the country's challenges.
The Kasangulu Manifesto focuses on several key areas, including restoring state authority, promoting peace and national cohesion, and enhancing good governance and justice. It also advocates for citizen participation and the valorization of national resources and democratic institutions. Bashombe's call for unity and solidarity resonates with the manifesto's goal of promoting a sense of shared citizenship.
The Bloc-RDC president's advocacy for citizen-led initiatives has sparked a national conversation on the role of citizens in shaping the country's future. As the manifesto continues to gain traction, it remains to be seen how it will influence the national debate on refounding the DRC. The initiative's success will depend on its ability to engage a broad spectrum of citizens and promote inclusive dialogue.
The Kasangulu Manifesto has been welcomed as a significant contribution to the national debate on the DRC's future. Its emphasis on citizen participation and inclusive dialogue reflects a growing recognition of the need for a more participatory approach to national decision-making. As the DRC continues to face numerous challenges, the manifesto's call for unity, solidarity, and collective action may help shape a more sustainable and equitable future for all Congolese people.
Key points
- The Kasangulu Manifesto aims to promote inclusive dialogue and citizen participation in the national debate on refounding the DRC.
