President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has called on Congolese living in the United States to remain united and vigilant against divisive forces. Speaking to supporters in Houston after the DRC’s historic 1-1 draw with Portugal in the FIFA World Cup, the president emphasized the need for national cohesion in the face of security challenges in eastern DRC.

Addressing the audience, Tshisekedi warned against those he described as enemies of the nation, urging Congolese to reject regionalism and betrayal. « Their accomplices are out of control. Stay united. Do not let them deceive you or exploit regional divisions. Reject any attempt to betray your country. There are still sorcerers among us—we thought they were only in Rwanda, but they have infiltrated our ranks, » he declared.

The president also praised the performance of the DRC’s national football team, the Léopards, calling their achievement a source of national pride. « The Léopards have made us proud. I have asked FIFA if we advance from the group stage, they will allocate additional tickets for Congolese supporters here. Do not worry—we will provide the necessary resources to our ambassador, » he stated.

Tshisekedi highlighted the broader significance of the team’s performance, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. « Today, everyone who feared Cristiano Ronaldo saw how we played—a nation at war like ours. Let us heed our national anthem and stand tall. Show the dignity of being Congolese, » he said.

The president announced his imminent return to the DRC, emphasizing his commitment to addressing other national priorities. « I will return to the Congo to attend to other matters. I came here merely to bring luck for the team’s first match. We are putting in place measures so you can continue to support the Léopards, » he explained.

On the security situation in eastern DRC, Tshisekedi expressed cautious optimism about future improvements. « I believe that, in the coming days, all of the Congo will be liberated. Our brothers and sisters are celebrating in Goma and Bukavu—we will be united soon. The enemies had infiltrated our ranks, but today we have learned our lesson. Now, we must build something greater, » he asserted.

In a speech that blended themes of football, national identity, and governance, the president urged Congolese to take pride in their heritage and invest in various sectors of society. « We have begun with the Léopards, and we will extend this momentum to all other fields: football, basketball, science, education. Be proud of being Congolese. It is my mission to restore this pride, » he concluded.

The DRC secured its first-ever point in FIFA World Cup history with the draw against Portugal in Houston, marking a historic moment for the nation.