The President of the Kongo Central Provincial Assembly, Papy Mantezolo, has reaffirmed the assembly's support for the national dialogue initiated by President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on August 28. In his opening speech of the ordinary session of September, Mantezolo emphasized the need for peace and dialogue in the country, highlighting that the Democratic Republic of Congo is one and indivisible, and its preservation is a collective responsibility.
Mantezolo also expressed his support for the constitutional reform, particularly the process of changing or revising the Constitution, which he considered an interest of national importance. This process aims to strengthen institutions, consolidate the rule of law, and promote the country's development. He praised President Tshisekedi's efforts in promoting peace, defending territorial integrity, and ensuring the security of citizens.
The President of the Provincial Assembly called for cohesion among provincial institutions, stressing that democracy cannot thrive when institutions become spaces for permanent confrontation or when personal interests take precedence over provincial interests. He urged the assembly, government, and other stakeholders to work together in respect of each other's competencies and in pursuit of the general interest.
Mantezolo also highlighted the responsibility of the provincial assembly to examine the 2027 budget project, assessing its priorities, sincerity, feasibility, and expected impact on the population. He emphasized that the people expect a budget that addresses their concrete concerns, such as infrastructure improvement, healthcare access, education, employment, and local economic development.
The session will also provide an opportunity for the provincial assembly to strengthen its parliamentary control mission. Mantezolo stressed that control of the provincial government's action should not be a hunt for individuals or a tool for political confrontation but rather an institutional mechanism for good governance, transparency, and public accountability.
The 14th Conference of Governors is scheduled to take place in December in Matadi, and Mantezolo invited stakeholders to make this event an opportunity to showcase the best of Kongo Central, promote its attractiveness, and encourage investments and partnerships that can support its development.
Key points
- The Kongo Central Provincial Assembly has reaffirmed its support for the national dialogue and constitutional reform.
- The assembly will examine the 2027 budget project and strengthen its parliamentary control mission.
- The 14th Conference of Governors will take place in December in Matadi, aiming to promote the province's development and attractiveness.
