The quest for national consensus in the Democratic Republic of Congo has become increasingly urgent among political actors and civil society. On September 23, the Dynamique des Politologues Congolais (DYPOL) and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation organized a "Café Politique Uongozi" to shed light on the strategic theme of "Referendum and political dialogue in DR Congo: which path to national consensus?" The event featured Martin Fayulu, leader of the opposition and president of the ECiDé party.
Martin Fayulu emphasized that the national dialogue should aim for national cohesion, not power sharing or institutional change. He stressed that the Constitution is sacred and not a disposable document, having been elaborated and voted on by the Congolese people in a referendum. Fayulu's address was followed by a rigorous academic analysis by Professor Katunda Mundundu, who provided a juridico-political framework for understanding the stakes.
Fayulu strongly criticized the negotiations and diplomatic processes conducted outside the country's borders, particularly the Doha discussions. He denounced the lack of an inclusive consultation framework on Congolese soil, warning that such external negotiations could lead to the country's balkanization. The opposition leader called for a genuine consensus based on truth and without complacency.
Professor Katunda Mundundu echoed Fayulu's requirements, emphasizing the need for sincere compromises and clear legal safeguards in any national dialogue. The academic highlighted the pathologies of previous dialogues in DR Congo, which often resulted in temporary legitimation at the expense of durable institutional stability. Katunda stressed that building trust between the political class and civil society is essential.
Constantin Grund, Resident Representative of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) in DR Congo, clarified the foundation's approach and its role in facilitating the debate. He emphasized the foundation's neutrality and the importance of national sovereignty, stating that the goal is to provide a platform for exchanging ideas and converging towards a consensus.
The conference also addressed issues of representativity, the risk of diluted responsibilities, and the conditions for a citizen pact. The synergy between Fayulu's political stance, Katunda's academic rigor, and the FES's neutrality enabled the development of a conceptual roadmap for the country's democratic future.
The DYPOL organizers announced the imminent publication of a synthesis document, formulating concrete recommendations for decision-makers and public opinion. The debate highlighted the need for a genuine national dialogue, free from external influence, and driven by the Congolese people's interests.
Key points
- Martin Fayulu emphasizes that national dialogue should aim for national cohesion, not power sharing.
- The opposition leader criticizes external negotiations, warning of the risk of balkanization.
- The Friedrich Ebert Foundation stresses its neutrality and commitment to facilitating a genuine national dialogue.
