The President of the Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde Kyenge, addressed the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (UIP) in Arusha, Tanzania, on October 6, 2026. He spoke before over 1,500 delegates, highlighting reforms undertaken by Kinshasa in governance and inclusion. Sama Lukonde emphasized the need for parliamentary solidarity in addressing the security situation in eastern DRC. The UIP assembly is themed "Strengthening Good Governance and Local Authorities through Inclusion, Trust, and Equal Opportunities."
Sama Lukonde praised the vision of DRC President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, which prioritizes the well-being of citizens. He showcased decentralization as a model of good governance, citing the Program for Local Development of 145 Territories (PDL-145T). This program aims to bring public action closer to the people and ensure more equitable development. Sama Lukonde described it as "solidarity in action." He also announced that President Tshisekedi will involve all layers of society in the upcoming national dialogue, aimed at peace, national cohesion, and state reform.
To illustrate the commitment to equal opportunities, Sama Lukonde mentioned several reforms. These include the creation of a ministry dedicated to people with disabilities, a law protecting their rights, free education, and universal health coverage, including free maternity care. He stressed that good governance only makes sense when women, young people, vulnerable individuals, and indigenous peoples participate fully in decision-making.
On the economic front, Sama Lukonde discussed the mining royalty paid to local communities, managed by a multipartite citizen committee to ensure transparency. He noted that the mining sector accounts for over 30% of DRC's GDP. Regarding youth employment, he outlined a legal framework, including a start-up law, an entrepreneurship guarantee fund, and a special fund for youth promotion.
The security situation in eastern DRC was a significant part of Sama Lukonde's address. He demanded the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and an end to their support for the terrorist group AFC/M23. He referenced UN Security Council Resolution 2773, the Washington Peace Agreement, the Doha Declaration of Principles, and the African Union process. Sama Lukonde emphasized that peace in eastern DRC is not an option but a fundamental requirement.
Several delegations described Sama Lukonde's speech as "effective diplomatic lobbying" for DRC's supreme interest. His address concluded with applause from the audience. Through this intervention, Sama Lukonde used the UIP debate as a platform to present Kinshasa's position, reviewing internal reforms and advocating for peace in eastern DRC.
The 153rd UIP Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy, with participants discussing pressing global issues. Sama Lukonde's speech highlighted DRC's commitment to good governance, inclusion, and peace. His call for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern DRC resonated with the assembly, underscoring the need for international cooperation to address regional security challenges.
Key points
- DRC Senate President Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde urges withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern DRC at 153rd UIP Assembly.
- Sama Lukonde highlights reforms in governance and inclusion in DRC, including decentralization and social programs.
- The security situation in eastern DRC is a major concern, with Sama Lukonde emphasizing the need for peace and stability.
