Félix Tshisekedi in Houston: unity and warnings to the Congolese diaspora
Houston, Texas — Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi delivered a powerful message of unity and national pride during an emotional meeting with Congolese diaspora members in Houston. The gathering followed the DCR national football team’s historic 1-1 draw against Portugal in the FIFA World Cup, marking Congo’s first-ever World Cup point.
Unity against division and regionalism
Addressing supporters in the Texan city, President Tshisekedi urged Congolese living abroad to remain vigilant against attempts to divide the nation through regionalism and external manipulation. His remarks came amid growing tensions in eastern DRC, where armed groups continue to destabilize communities.
« Their accomplices have gone mad. Stay united. Do not let them deceive you with regionalism. Never betray your country. There are still sorcerers among us. We thought they were only in Rwanda, yet they have infiltrated our ranks, » he declared, emphasizing the need for national cohesion.
Football as a unifying force
The Congolese head of state praised the performance of the Léopards, the national football team, calling their achievement a source of pride for the entire nation. « The Léopards have made us proud. I have asked FIFA if we advance from the group stage, they will add tickets for Congolese here. Do not worry — we will provide resources to our ambassador, » he stated.
Tshisekedi highlighted how the team’s success resonated beyond sports: « Today, everyone who feared Cristiano Ronaldo saw how we played — a country at war like ours. Let us stand tall as our national anthem commands. Show the world what it means to be Congolese. »
Security situation and hope for the future
Touching on the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, the president expressed confidence that the situation would improve in the coming months. « I believe that in the days ahead, all of Congo will be liberated. Our brothers and sisters are celebrating in Goma and Bukavu — soon, we will all be together again. The enemies infiltrated us, but we have learned our lesson. Now, we must build something greater, » he affirmed.
A call for national pride and investment
In a speech blending football, politics, and national identity, President Tshisekedi called on Congolese to take pride in their heritage and invest in various sectors. « We have started with the Léopards, and we will extend this momentum to all fields — football, basketball, science, education. Be proud of being Congolese. It is my mission to restore that pride, » he declared.
The DRC secured its first-ever World Cup point with Wednesday’s 1-1 draw against Portugal in Houston, a result that has energized the nation and its diaspora.