DRC independence 66th anniversary: Archbishop Fulgence Muteba warns nation could be lost without reconciliation and forgiveness

During the commemoration of the 66th anniversary of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s independence, the metropolitan archbishop of Lubumbashi, who also serves as president of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), Monsignor Fulgence Muteba Mugalu, delivered a passionate plea for reconciliation, forgiveness, and national unity.

In his homily delivered on Tuesday at the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Lubumbashi, the prelate cautioned that the nation faces the danger of jeopardizing its future if it does not resolutely embrace the path of lasting peace.

Addressing religious leaders, Catholic faithful, and numerous guests gathered for the national holiday, Archbishop Fulgence Muteba urged Congolese to turn the independence anniversary into an opportunity for deep reflection on the country’s future.

He declared that the Congolese must strive to become a country that is both respectable and respected. He emphasized that to overcome challenges, a consensus is necessary to build enduring peace, along with mutual forgiveness, reconciliation, and the strengthening of national cohesion grounded in the philosophy of living together. If they fail to follow this course, he warned, the risk of eventually losing the country is very high.

Peace as a condition for the Congo’s future

Against a backdrop of security challenges, political tensions, and social divisions, the head of the Catholic Church in the DRC stressed the need for a collective awakening. He believes that the country’s greatness can only be secured if its citizens prioritize dialogue, mutual forgiveness, and the constant pursuit of the common good.

His message underscores the urgency of overcoming divisions to forge a national consensus that can cement lasting peace and preserve the nation’s unity.

Living together at the heart of the national project

Archbishop Fulgence Muteba placed particular emphasis on the philosophy of communal living, which he regards as the essential foundation of national cohesion. He asserted that no political, economic, or institutional reform can achieve lasting results without this principle.