Interview with Francine Muyumba on the Political Situation in the DRC
Introduction
Guest: Francine Muyumba, Honorary Senator
Date: Friday, July 5
Context: Discussion on the opposition, Constitution, and security situation in the East of the DRC
Loyalty to Joseph Kabila and the FCC
Affiliation: Still a member of the FCC and loyal to Joseph Kabila
Kabila’s Silence: Interpreted as strategic
Political Position: Remain in resistance, did not participate in the elections due to problems with CENI, the electoral law, and the Constitutional Court
Critique of the UDPS and the Current Government
Comparison with UDPS: Criticizes their inability to replicate the past successes of the FCC
Socio-Economic and Security Situation: Judged worse under the UDPS
Lack of Leadership: Denounces the absence of effective leadership in the current opposition
Strategies and Future
Forecasting Events: Strategically preparing for a return to power
Critique of a Divided Opposition: Highlights the lack of sincerity and unity
Revision of the Constitution
Position on Revision: Rejects any amendments aimed at keeping Félix Tshisekedi in power
Importance of National Unity: Calls for a peaceful political climate before any revisions
Revision Plan: Dismisses the idea that the Union Sacrée can revise the constitution to prolong the current president’s mandate
Security and Diplomacy
Security Problems in the East: Government actions deemed inadequate and insufficient
Critique of Foreign Deployments: Considers support from East Africa as a mistake
Support for FARDC: Advocates strengthening the Congolese army
Critique of the Budget and Sama Lukonde’s Government
Five-Year Budget: Achieving $92 billion seen as unrealistic
Poor Management: Observes poor management of national resources
Critique of Sama Lukonde's Program: Judges the government’s programs as repetitive and ineffective
Conclusion
Role of the Congolese People: Calls for Congolese to rise and choose their leaders with greater discernment
Importance of Strong Leadership: Emphasizes the need for leaders capable of addressing the real needs of the country