Congo-Kinshasa political dialogue: coalition sets unyielding conditions

The leaders of the Article 64 Coalition for the Defense of Constitutional Order (C64) concluded their two-day visit to Bujumbura on July 9, 2026, following a meeting with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye. The delegation, led by Martin Fayulu, moved quickly to clarify their stance amid accusations of compromising their principles for political rapprochement with President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration.

The C64 coalition emphasized that their engagement in dialogue was not by choice but initiated by Ndayishimiye in his role as the current chair of the African Union. While expressing openness to political discussions aimed at national cohesion, the coalition firmly outlined their non-negotiable prerequisites.

Core demands for genuine political dialogue

The coalition’s conditions for meaningful engagement include:

• Public and permanent withdrawal of the constitutional amendment project currently advancing under President Tshisekedi’s regime;
• Immediate release of all political prisoners held across the country;
• Cessation of politically motivated judicial prosecutions;
• Restoration of fundamental public freedoms, including freedom of expression and assembly.

The C64 leadership stressed that previous peace processes failed to address the deep-rooted political crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They argued that neglecting the political dimensions of the conflict has perpetuated instability and hindered progress toward sustainable solutions.

Constitutional integrity and civic sovereignty at the forefront

Among their core demands, the coalition insists on the strict respect for the Constitution, the rule of law, and the sovereignty of the Congolese people. They view the ongoing constitutional revision as a direct threat to national stability, particularly in the context of ongoing conflict and foreign occupation of parts of the national territory.

In a bold move, the coalition announced plans to stage a peaceful march on July 22, 2026, heading toward the Palais de la Nation in Kinshasa. Their primary objective: to demand the resignation of President Félix Tshisekedi, whom they accuse of violating his constitutional oath through actions that undermine democratic governance and national unity.

The C64’s unwavering position reflects a growing sentiment among opposition groups that dialogue without addressing systemic constitutional violations will only prolong the country’s political turmoil.