With the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s opposition coalition C64 poised for a major demonstration to defend constitutional order, a delegation of opposition figures and religious leaders traveled to Bujumbura. The visit coincides with high-level political consultations convened by Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who also serves as the current chair of the African Union, to address the deepening political, security, and institutional crisis gripping the DRC.
Against a backdrop of escalating tensions in Kinshasa, the C64’s planned march has been postponed until July 22, reflecting the urgency of the ongoing dialogue.
Uniting opposition and faith leaders in diplomatic talks
The Bujumbura consultations have brought together key representatives from the C64 coalition alongside delegates from the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), and the Religious Platform, including leaders from the Revival Churches.
« The room is filled with priests, pastors, and leaders like Ejiba Yamampia, who represents the Revival Churches. The entire C64 coalition is also present, demonstrating the broad alliance working toward a shared goal. »
The agenda includes separate discussions with religious leaders before a joint audience with C64’s leadership. This is followed by an extended meeting where all participants will engage directly with President Ndayishimiye to explore pathways to resolution.
The coalition has made one condition non-negotiable: their leaders must be received as a unified delegation.
« When we refer to separate meetings, it does not mean the C64 leaders will be addressed individually. On the contrary, they will be received collectively — this was a firm demand, and it has been honored. »
July 22 set as new date for C64’s constitutional order march
The Bujumbura consultations played a decisive role in the coalition’s decision to postpone its July 8 demonstration. In a joint statement, figures such as Martin Fayulu, Moïse Katumbi, Jean-Marc Kabund, Delly Sesanga, and Augustin Matata Ponyo cited their acceptance of President Ndayishimiye’s invitation as a commitment to responsibility.
They emphasized their willingness to explore every avenue that could help uphold constitutional order, while using this platform to voice the population’s concerns and highlight perceived threats to the nation’s democracy and institutions.
The African Union champions dialogue in Congo’s political crisis
This mediation effort follows President Ndayishimiye’s recent state visit to Kinshasa, where he and President Félix Tshisekedi underscored the critical need to preserve institutional stability and national unity amid persistent security challenges in eastern DRC.
The African Union chair also urged Congolese political and social stakeholders to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, commending the Congolese authorities for their demonstrated openness to engagement.
As the Bujumbura consultations conclude, all eyes now turn to July 22 — the rescheduled date for the C64’s national march. The event remains focused on defending constitutional order and delivering a formal memorandum to President Félix Tshisekedi.
