On October 31, 2026, Tony Kanku Shiku addressed a gathering of young people from various parts of Kinshasa at the YMCA, discussing pressing issues related to the country's politics and security. As the High Representative of the Head of State, he outlined the government's stance on national dialogue, tribalism allegations, and the security crisis in the East. Kanku Shiku emphasized the importance of finding lasting solutions to the country's crisis through dialogue and restoring peace.
Kanku Shiku clarified that the national dialogue will not be a platform for sharing power or providing access to institutions through unofficial means. He stressed that the dialogue aims to bring together Congolese people to find solutions to the crisis, excluding those who have taken up arms against the Republic. He invited those who have chosen violence to disarm and return to reason before joining the dialogue.
In a firm tone, Kanku Shiku directly addressed former President Joseph Kabila, urging him to abandon the path of violence. He called on Kabila to allow Rwandans to return home and for Congolese fighting alongside them to disarm and return to reason. Kanku Shiku emphasized that the Head of State remains open to dialogue and that one cannot claim to love their country while taking up arms against their own population.
Addressing allegations of tribalism against the current regime, Kanku Shiku rejected claims that President Félix Tshisekedi is hostile to certain communities, particularly the Swahili community. He cited the president's marriage and the background of the commander of the Republican Guard as evidence contradicting these allegations. Kanku Shiku called on Congolese people to put aside community divisions and prioritize national unity in the face of challenges.
Kanku Shiku emphasized that access to public responsibilities should be based on competence, a sense of responsibility, and patriotic contribution to the nation's development. He highlighted the importance of constructive criticism when made in the best interest of the Republic. Through his intervention, Kanku Shiku tackled three major issues: seeking peace through dialogue, rejecting armed struggle, and preserving national cohesion.
The High Representative's message centered on the need to prioritize political solutions and preserve the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of Congo. He aligned himself with the orientations defended by the Head of State, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and the rejection of violence. Kanku Shiku's address aimed to provide clarity on the government's stance on pressing national issues.
The event, which took place at the YMCA in Kinshasa, brought together young people from various parts of the city, providing a platform for Kanku Shiku to engage with the youth and address their concerns. By speaking directly to the youth, Kanku Shiku demonstrated the government's commitment to engaging with citizens and addressing the nation's challenges.
Key points
- The national dialogue aims to bring together Congolese people to find lasting solutions to the country's crisis, excluding those who have taken up arms against the Republic.
- Kanku Shiku urged former President Joseph Kabila to abandon the path of violence and allow Rwandans to return home.
- The High Representative emphasized the importance of prioritizing national unity and competence in accessing public responsibilities.
