During a session at the United Nations Security Council this Friday, the head of MONUSCO, James Swan, issued a significant political appeal to the authorities in Kinshasa. He called upon all Congolese political and social actors to reach a common understanding on the framework for an inclusive national dialogue.
Protecting the civic space
The UN envoy placed heavy emphasis on the preservation of fundamental rights. He stressed that the freedom of assembly and expression are non-negotiable pillars for any successful transition. It is imperative that every stakeholder is granted a peaceful and secure environment to voice their perspectives without fear of reprisal.
This diplomatic intervention comes at a critical juncture for the RDC. The nation is currently grappling with fierce internal divisions regarding potential constitutional amendments. Tensions have recently escalated, notably with the targeting of the CENCO headquarters by individuals aligned with the governing power in Kinshasa.
Advancements in security reform
Beyond the political stalemate, the UN representative also addressed the country’s security landscape. He noted positive developments, including the creation of a national commission dedicated to reforming the security apparatus. Furthermore, he highlighted the ongoing finalization of the first national security policy, an initiative directly managed by the presidency to stabilize the RDC.