As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) commemorated its 66th anniversary of independence, Mgr Fulgence Muteba Mugalu, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Lubumbashi and President of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), issued a powerful call for national reconciliation, genuine forgiveness, and unity.

During his homily delivered this Tuesday at the Saints-Pierre-et-Paul Cathedral in Lubumbashi, the esteemed prelate cautioned that the nation risks jeopardizing its future if it fails to decisively embrace the path towards lasting peace.

Addressing an assembly of religious leaders, Catholic faithful, and various dignitaries gathered for the national holiday, Mgr Fulgence Muteba urged all Congolese citizens to transform this independence anniversary into a profound moment of introspection regarding the country’s destiny.

« We must evolve into a nation that is both respected and self-respecting. To overcome our current challenges, a consensus is imperative for forging enduring peace; we must forgive each other, reconcile, and strengthen our national cohesion based on the philosophy of ‘living together.’ Should we neglect this path, the grave danger of losing our country looms large. Consider yourselves forewarned, » declared the President of CENCO.

Lasting Peace: A Prerequisite for Congo’s Future

In a landscape marked by persistent security concerns, political strife, and societal fissures, the head of the Congolese Catholic Church underscored the urgent need for a collective awakening. He firmly believes that the DRC’s potential for greatness can only be realized if its people prioritize dialogue, mutual forgiveness, and an unwavering pursuit of the common good.

His message illuminates the critical imperative to transcend existing divisions, fostering a national consensus capable of solidifying sustainable peace and safeguarding the nation’s unity.

The ‘Living Together’ Ethos at the Core of National Aspiration

Mgr Fulgence Muteba particularly emphasized the philosophy of ‘living together’ (vivre-ensemble), identifying it as the indispensable foundation for national cohesion. In his view, no political, economic, or institutional reform can yield lasting results without this fundamental principle of shared existence.