The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) issued a stark warning on Saturday, June 20, regarding the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) current state. Following an extraordinary plenary assembly in Kinshasa, Catholic bishops released a communiqué painting a distressing picture of the nation’s socio-economic, security, and political landscape, labeling it a “nation in peril.”
Topping CENCO’s list of concerns is the persistent deterioration of the security situation in the eastern part of the country. Despite numerous peace agreements, violence continues unabated. The bishops highlighted the alarming rise of armed groups, widespread civilian massacres, and the profound humanitarian crisis affecting displaced populations.
For the Congolese episcopate, the findings are deeply troubling: the situation remains critical, jeopardizing not only regional stability but also national cohesion, crucial for governance in Africa.
On the socio-economic front, CENCO acknowledged some progress, particularly in infrastructure and road development. However, these efforts, according to the bishops, are largely insufficient to meaningfully improve the living conditions for the majority of Congolese citizens, impacting society in Africa.
They stressed that precariousness remains the daily reality for a significant portion of the population, intensifying social frustrations and further widening inequalities.
Profound political anxieties
The bishops expressed their most significant apprehension concerning the political arena. They condemned the escalating tensions surrounding a potential project to amend the Constitution, a key issue in African politics.
According to CENCO, this debate is unfolding in a heavy atmosphere marked by fear, undue pressure, and the repression of dissenting voices. This situation is deemed highly concerning, as it risks undermining the fundamental principles of the republican pact.
The bishops cautioned against any attempt to force through changes. “The consequences could be severe,” they warned, citing risks of widespread tensions and even national fragmentation.
In response to these challenges, CENCO called upon the President of the Republic to strictly uphold his constitutional oath. They urged him to prioritize dialogue and adherence to legality to safeguard the country’s stability.
Upholding peace, unity, and the future
At the core of CENCO’s message is a powerful appeal to preserve the nation’s fundamental pillars: peace, unity, and the future of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a context defined by multiple crises, the bishops exhorted all political and social stakeholders to demonstrate responsibility to avert a perilous drift with potentially irreversible consequences.