In a bid to restore stability, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has vowed to form a unity government as his administration faces mounting pressure over an escalating conflict in the east.
Tshisekedi’s spokesperson, Tina Salama, confirmed the plan on Saturday, stating that leadership changes within the ruling Sacred Union coalition would follow, though details remained undisclosed.
The president urged his allies to set aside internal disputes, calling for solidarity in the face of a common enemy, saying, “We must unite … let’s stand together to face the enemy.”
The ongoing offensive by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has ignited fears of a broader regional conflict, as the group seizes valuable mineral-rich territories in eastern Congo.
Losses in North and South Kivu provinces since the beginning of the year have intensified scrutiny of the government’s military strategy, with critics questioning Tshisekedi’s ability to lead.
Opposition figure Herve Diakiese dismissed the unity government as a political maneuver, accusing the president of prioritizing his power over national stability.
“Tshisekedi is more concerned with saving his power, whereas we are more concerned with saving the Congo,” Diakiese said, arguing that change is possible with or without the president.
As tensions rise and opposition voices grow louder, the question remains whether Tshisekedi’s new government will bring stability or deepen the divisions within an already fractured nation.