DRC Opposition Rejects Tshisekedi’s National Dialogue Offer

President Felix Tshisekedi’s proposed national dialogue has been rejected by a coalition of major opposition groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo, deepening tensions over the country’s political future.

The opposition coalition, known as Article 64, accused Tshisekedi of using the proposed talks to strengthen his political position and pave the way for a possible third presidential term.

The coalition also criticised the president’s decision to exclude the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group from the dialogue. Opposition groups have insisted that any meaningful talks should include M23 representatives and allies of former President Joseph Kabila.

Tshisekedi has defended the dialogue as a way to promote compromise and stability. He has also ruled out M23 participation, saying the December peace agreement signed in Washington provides the appropriate framework for addressing the conflict.

The dispute comes as the opposition campaigns against proposed constitutional changes that could allow Tshisekedi, who was elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, to seek a third term. The current constitution limits presidents to two terms.

The opposition has scheduled nationwide protests for September 15 after authorities suppressed an earlier demonstration in Kinshasa against the proposed constitutional amendment.

The UN said at least one person was killed and several others injured during clashes at the July protest.