On the 66th anniversary of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s independence, Metropolitan Archbishop of Lubumbashi and president of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), Mgr Fulgence Muteba Mugalu, issued a strong appeal for reconciliation, forgiveness, and national cohesion.
During his homily on Tuesday at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in Lubumbashi, the prelate cautioned that the country jeopardizes its future unless it firmly chooses the path of lasting peace.
Addressing religious leaders, Catholic faithful, and guests gathered for the national holiday, Mgr Muteba urged Congolese to turn the independence anniversary into a moment of deep reflection on the nation’s destiny.
“We must become a respectable and respected country. To get out of this situation, we need a consensus to build lasting peace, we must forgive each other, reconcile, and strengthen our national cohesion based on the philosophy of living together. If we do not take this path, there is a great risk of going so far as to lose this country. We have been warned,” declared the CENCO president.
Peace as a condition for Congo’s future
Amid security challenges, political tensions, and social fractures, the head of the Congolese Catholic Church stressed the need for a collective surge. For him, the greatness of the DRC can only be guaranteed if its sons and daughters prioritize dialogue, mutual forgiveness, and the constant pursuit of the common good.
His message highlights the urgency of overcoming divisions to build a national consensus capable of consolidating lasting peace and preserving the country’s unity.
Living together at the heart of the national project
Mgr Fulgence Muteba particularly emphasized the philosophy of living together, which he considers the indispensable foundation of national cohesion. According to him, no political, economic, or institutional reform can produce sustainable results without living together.
José Mukendi
