Summary:
- Tshisekedi assured citizens of a strong and coordinated military response against the M23 rebels and their backers.
KINSHASA: The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, has called on the Congolese people to show resilience and resistance in the face of the worsening security crisis in the east of the country.
Addressing the nation in a speech broadcast live on the national television on Wednesday, Tshisekedi assured citizens of a strong and coordinated military response against the M23 rebels and their backers.
“In these difficult times, I urge you to resist and remain resilient. I assure you that our armed forces are prepared to defend every inch of our territory against these M23 terrorists and their sponsors. I have convened crisis meetings with key government officials to strategize and reclaim our land,” he declared.
Tshisekedi highlighted the deteriorating security situation in the eastern provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri, attributing the violence to Rwanda’s support for M23 rebels. He accused the Rwandan Defense Forces of orchestrating a campaign of terror that has left communities in despair.
“I share in the pain and indignation of our people, who face these barbaric attacks. This is not just an assault on our nation but an affront to our history and dignity,” he stated.
To strengthen military operations and restore state authority in North Kivu, Tshisekedi appointed Major General Evariste Somo Kakule as the new military governor of the province.
Diplomatic and Military Strategy
While emphasizing the importance of diplomacy, the Congolese leader reaffirmed his commitment to defending national sovereignty by all necessary means.
“We have taken diplomatic steps within the United Nations and remain engaged in the Luanda peace process despite persistent challenges,” Tshisekedi noted.
However, he stressed that the fight for the DRC’s sovereignty is not just the responsibility of the armed forces but of the entire Congolese people.
“To all our compatriots—regardless of political affiliation, location, or profession—let us stand united in unwavering support for our soldiers. Let us mobilize as one to protect our territorial integrity. I am fully aware of the suffering of those displaced by the conflict,” he acknowledged.
Tshisekedi announced that the Suminwa government has been instructed to activate an emergency humanitarian plan to assist displaced populations, particularly those in Goma and its surrounding areas.
“Security measures have been strengthened to protect strategic areas, and we are working tirelessly to maintain essential services,” he said.
Paying tribute to fallen soldiers, he honored Major General Peter Chirimwami, who died in combat, and extended his condolences to all FARDC troops, Wazalendo fighters, SMIRDC personnel, and MONUSCO peacekeepers who have lost their lives.
“Their sacrifice will not be forgotten,” he affirmed.
Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of blatantly violating UN principles and regional agreements, warning that its military presence in the DRC and its involvement in the illegal exploitation of natural resources are fueling instability across the Great Lakes region.
“The Congolese people will not remain silent in the face of this passive response from the international community, which borders on complicity,” he said.
He also condemned recent attacks on diplomatic missions in Kinshasa, urging citizens to reject violence and disorder.
“I strongly denounce the acts of vandalism and looting targeting embassies and private businesses. We will win this war, but not through blind violence or anarchy,” he stressed.
In his concluding remarks, Tshisekedi encouraged young Congolese to enlist in the military and actively contribute to the nation’s defense.
“I urge the youth to answer the call of the homeland. This is the time to rise and put your creativity and energy at the service of the nation. Enlist in the army—because you are the spearhead of our country,” he declared.
With tensions escalating, Tshisekedi reassured the people of eastern DRC that they are not alone in this struggle, affirming that the entire nation is united in the fight for peace and sovereignty.
