The African Union urges peaceful dialogue in DR Congo, backs Tshisekedi’s efforts and reaffirms support for regional mediation and ceasefire commitments….reports Africa Daily News Desk
The African Union (AU) has called on political actors in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to pursue peaceful dialogue, exercise restraint and avoid actions that could worsen tensions, as political and security developments in the country remain under close watch.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chairperson of the African Union Commission, welcomed efforts by Congolese President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo to promote an inclusive national political dialogue involving relevant political and social stakeholders, while respecting the country’s constitutional institutions.
The AU Commission chairperson reiterated the bloc’s opposition to unconstitutional changes of government, particularly the seizure of power by force and the overthrow of democratically established institutions.
He recalled the principles enshrined in the AU Constitutive Act, the 2000 Lomé Declaration and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which condemn such actions.
Youssouf urged all political actors and concerned parties to rely exclusively on peaceful means and refrain from initiatives that could fuel tensions or undermine prospects for dialogue and national reconciliation.
AU stresses sovereignty and ceasefire commitments
The AU Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the DRC, stressing the importance of preserving progress made through the Doha and Washington processes.
It also called for the implementation of commitments made under those processes, respect for the ceasefire and protection of civilian populations.
The statement underlined the need for political dialogue and continued diplomatic engagement to address the country’s challenges and support stability across the wider Great Lakes region.
Youssouf reiterated the African Union’s full support for mediation led by Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, who serves as the AU mediator.
The mediation efforts are supported by the Facilitators’ Panel of the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The AU Commission said it remained ready to support the mediation process in coordination with regional and international initiatives, with the aim of achieving lasting peace in the DRC and the wider Great Lakes region.
