The C64 coalition, a prominent opposition group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has decisively rejected the national dialogue initiative proposed by President Félix Tshisekedi. The coalition firmly asserts that this presidential overture serves as a mere diversion from the profound and pressing issues confronting the Congolese populace.
Following a five-hour session of intense deliberation, the C64’s collective stance was unveiled by Martin Fayulu. He articulated, “The people are not naive. These recurring consultations from Félix Tshisekedi neither address the urgency of the ongoing conflict and insecurity, nor the severe health crisis, nor the widespread social distress plaguing Congolese citizens. Instead, they deliberately sidetrack the nation from its true and vital priorities.” The opposition leaders accuse the current administration of substituting an authentic, all-encompassing national dialogue with ineffective and superficial efforts.
According to key opposition figures, President Tshisekedi is “cynically focused” on retaining power beyond his constitutionally mandated second term, which is slated to conclude in 2028. “The government is actively creating conditions for a power extension, leveraging the conflict and hardship in the eastern part of the country as a political tool,” they claimed. “The C64 stands united against Félix Tshisekedi’s ambitions, which, we fear, could solidify the balkanization of the nation, even as his term is set to expire in 754 days.”
In light of what it terms a dangerous political trajectory, the C64 coalition is now preparing to mobilize the general public. The group has reiterated its call for a significant national march, scheduled for September 15th, aimed at countering the perceived maneuvers of the ruling party.