As the Democratic Republic of Congo prepares for a critical juncture in its political history, the spotlight is on the presidency and the National Dialogue initiative announced by President Félix Tshisekedi. The success of this national gathering relies heavily on popular mobilization. A recent survey by the Institut d'analyses sociopolitiques aimed to measure public perception of the commitment of political actors to the initiative.
The survey evaluated the popularity, clarity of discourse, and mobilization capacity of various politicians. It identified the top 10 figures who are effectively supporting President Tshisekedi's initiative. These leaders are crucial in promoting the dialogue and achieving a massive and indisputable popular adhesion. They are traversing provinces, engaging with the media, and interacting with civil society to convince the masses of the necessity of the dialogue.
Tony Kanku Shiku, with 82% support, is a key figure in this mobilization effort. He has chosen to engage directly with the country's grassroots, meeting with civil society, religious leaders, and youth groups. Kanku Shiku emphasizes that dialogue is the only means to defuse the latent crisis and promote national stability. He advocates for an inclusive dialogue involving the majority, opposition, and social forces.
Guy Loando Mboyo, with 78% support, is another prominent figure supporting the National Dialogue. As Minister of State for Relations with Parliament, he has been instrumental in mobilizing popular support for the initiative. Loando Mboyo has been conducting mass rallies, conferences, and direct exchanges with civil society, traditional leaders, and youth across the country. His message is clear: national unity is no longer an option but a patriotic imperative.
Gentiny Ngobila, with 75% support, has also expressed his backing for the National Dialogue initiative. As president of the Alliance des Congolais Progressistes (ACP), he has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Tshisekedi's efforts to promote peace and national cohesion. Ngobila encouraged Congolese citizens to prioritize the nation's supreme interest and engage in the dialogue.
Augustin Kabuya, with 70% support, has demonstrated significant mobilization capacity. As secretary general and interim president of the Union pour la démocratie et le progrès social (UDPS/Tshisekedi), he organized a massive rally in Kinshasa, bringing together thousands of militants and supporters. The event aimed to showcase popular support for the National Dialogue, institutions, and the referendum process initiated by President Tshisekedi.
Other notable figures supporting the National Dialogue include Patrick Muyaya, with 63% support, who is working to mobilize the population through various initiatives. As Minister of Communication and Media, Muyaya aims to promote an inclusive and citizen-driven dialogue. Jean-Pierre Lihau, also with 63% support, is contributing to the effort as Vice Prime Minister in charge of the Interior.
Key points
- The survey evaluated politicians based on their popularity, clarity of discourse, and mobilization capacity.
- Tony Kanku Shiku, Guy Loando Mboyo, and Gentiny Ngobila are among the top 3 politicians supporting President Tshisekedi's National Dialogue initiative.
- The National Dialogue initiative aims to promote national unity and address the country's challenges through an inclusive and citizen-driven process.