In a compelling open letter addressed to President Félix Tshisekedi on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Denis Mukwege delivered a scathing assessment of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s governance since 2019. His critique specifically targets the ongoing security crisis plaguing Eastern DRC, the handling of the state of siege, the government’s diplomatic strategies, the proposed security sector reforms, and broader concerns regarding national sovereignty.
Mukwege further implored the head of state to safeguard the nation’s unity, resist any attempts to amend the Constitution, and unequivocally prioritize peace, justice, and the protection of the Congolese populace at the core of national policies.
Rejecting Corruption and Impunity
His poignant open letter declared that there was “nothing to celebrate” on the anniversary of the country’s independence. He argued that the DRC is currently grappling with a profound crisis, characterized by pervasive insecurity, widespread suffering among its citizens, and significant threats to the integrity of its national territory.
The esteemed Nobel laureate meticulously reviewed several decisions implemented since President Tshisekedi assumed power in 2019. He particularly condemned the management of the state of siege, the security policies enacted in the eastern regions of the country, and certain diplomatic orientations pursued with both regional and international partners.
Within this powerful correspondence, Denis Mukwege also expressed deep disappointment over the lack of substantial progress in combating impunity. He specifically lamented the failure to implement recommendations concerning transitional justice and the establishment of a specialized tribunal to prosecute grave crimes committed within the DRC.
Opposing Constitutional Reform
The former presidential candidate from 2023 also voiced profound apprehension regarding potential “risks to national sovereignty.” He urged President Tshisekedi to instead focus on restoring peace, ensuring civilian protection, bolstering the rule of law, and enhancing overall governance.
Denis Mukwege emphatically exhorted Félix Tshisekedi to refrain from initiating any process of constitutional revision. He characterized this moment as “this last chance” for the nation to redirect its trajectory towards a sustainable resolution of its multifaceted crises.
