DRC president unveils inclusive national dialogue led by religious leaders

Kinshasa, July 17, 2026 — President Félix Tshisekedi has announced plans for a comprehensive nationwide dialogue, marking a significant step toward national reconciliation. The initiative, described as “inclusive, peaceful, and firmly rooted in republican values,” will be jointly facilitated by the country’s leading religious organizations.

Following a high-level meeting at the Cité de l’Union africaine in Kinshasa, the presidency released a statement emphasizing the dialogue’s role in strengthening national cohesion while upholding constitutional principles. The announcement comes amid ongoing political and security challenges, particularly the persistent conflict in the eastern provinces.

Religious leaders endorse dialogue initiative

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa, speaking on behalf of the religious delegation, expressed strong support for the initiative. “We welcome this bold decision by the Head of State and extend our deepest gratitude,” he stated, highlighting the critical importance of unity in addressing the nation’s crises.

The cardinal underscored the necessity of dialogue as a means to foster “communion among all sons and daughters of Congo,” particularly in light of the ongoing war in the East, which he attributed to external interference. “Our nation cannot prosper without unity,” he asserted, calling on both the ruling majority and opposition to actively participate in the process.

Religious leaders have accepted their mandate to guide the dialogue, framing their involvement as a moral and spiritual duty. “We will carry this forward as an apostolic mission,” Cardinal Ambongo affirmed, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the nation’s stability over partisan interests.

Key figures and next steps

The historic meeting included prominent religious figures such as:

• Bishop André Bokundoa, representing the Église du Christ au Congo;
• Archbishop Ejiba Yamampia of the Église de Réveil du Congo;
• Sheikh Abdallah Mangala of the Muslim Community;
• Bishop Donatien Nshole, spokesperson for the Catholic Church;
• Pastor Éric Senga, spokesperson for the Église du Christ au Congo.

While details of the dialogue’s structure, agenda, and timeline remain under discussion, a provisional roadmap is expected to be published in the coming days. The announcement follows a series of consultations involving political actors, civil society, and regional leaders aimed at addressing the deepening political and security crisis.

Regional and political context

Earlier this month, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, then-Chairperson of the African Union, convened meetings in Bujumbura with Congolese opposition figures and religious leaders. He urged flexibility and commitment to dialogue as a pathway to resolving the crisis.

Additionally, Cardinal Ambongo held discussions in Brazzaville with Republic of Congo President Denis Sassou-Nguesso on July 9, focusing on the political and security situation in the DRC. These exchanges reflect growing regional engagement in efforts to stabilize the country.

The announcement arrives at a critical juncture, with opposition groups demanding the release of political prisoners, the cessation of perceived politically motivated prosecutions, and guarantees for public freedoms before engaging in discussions. Meanwhile, President Tshisekedi has reiterated his openness to dialogue while cautioning against attempts to undermine constitutional order or subvert the will of the people.

As the nation grapples with complex challenges, the inclusive dialogue initiative represents a pivotal opportunity to chart a path forward—one that prioritizes peace, unity, and the collective aspirations of the Congolese people.