Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege has issued an open letter to President Félix Tshisekedi dated 30/06/2026, highlighting that the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to face serious security, governance, and justice challenges. He called for strong and urgent measures to address the country’s long-standing crises.
In his message, Mukwege stated that from 2019 to the present, the country has not seen tangible progress in addressing security challenges, especially in eastern DRC, where ongoing clashes and acts of looting continue to have severe impacts on civilians.
He also addressed the state of emergency governance (état de siège), noting that it has not delivered the expected results. He criticized the government’s performance in the areas of security management, foreign policy, and security sector reforms.
Mukwege further stated that corruption and a culture of impunity remain major obstacles, stressing that justice should be prioritized so that those responsible for serious war crimes and crimes against humanity are held accountable.
He urged President Tshisekedi not to engage in constitutional reform efforts at this time, but instead to focus on restoring peace, protecting civilians, strengthening the rule of law, and rebuilding public trust.
Regarding the security situation in eastern DRC, reports from different sources continue to present contrasting accounts of civilians’ living conditions. Some residents and analysts argue that areas controlled by the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) coalition and MRDP-Twirwaneho experience relative stability compared to zones under FARDC control and its allies, including Burundian forces, Wazalendo militias, and the FDLR.
On the other hand, allegations of human rights abuses, looting, and killings in various areas controlled by FARDC and its partners continue to be reported. These claims remain contested and have sparked calls for an independent investigation to establish the truth.
Analysts say Denis Mukwege’s message once again highlights that the security crisis in eastern DRC remains one of the country’s most pressing challenges, and that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, justice, and good governance.
As the DRC continues to seek solutions to its challenges, Mukwege’s warning reminds leaders that peace, the protection of civilians, and the strengthening of institutions are key to helping the country overcome its long-standing crises.
