President Félix Tshisekedi has unveiled the framework for a comprehensive national dialogue, a long-standing demand from the opposition, aimed at restoring stability and fundamentally rebuilding the state in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This crucial initiative will commence its proceedings across all 26 provinces before converging in Kinshasa, with a maximum duration of three months. Participation is envisioned to be broad, encompassing representatives from the ruling majority, opposition factions, civil society organizations, religious denominations, and diverse segments of the population. However, armed groups actively engaged in conflict are explicitly excluded from this process. A critical question remains: can this dialogue truly achieve success without the involvement of key actors perpetuating the conflict in the RDC’s eastern regions? Furthermore, what distinct elements will enable this new endeavor to succeed where previous dialogues and consultations have faltered?
