As Congo-Brazzaville faces a prolonged political and social crisis, Modeste Boukadia, President of the Circle of Democrats and Republicans of Congo (CDRC), reflects on the many proposals he has made over the years to initiate inclusive dialogue and prevent national disintegration—proposals that have consistently been dismissed. In this piece, he asserts that the time for dialogue has passed, and that only a genuine political transition can restore national unity and rebuild healthy, respectful, and dynamic relations with international partners. (CDRC Press Service)

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OPINION | The Time for Dialogue Is Over: A Call for Political Transition in Congo
By Modeste Boukadia

HISTORY IS OUR COMPASS

When Laurent-Désiré Kabila suggested that Marshal Mobutu Sese Seko step down to avoid national collapse, Mobutu responded with scorn: “That’s a bad joke!” History remembers what followed — and it has rendered its verdict.

For years, in the face of worsening political decay and the suffering of the Congolese people, I have made repeated efforts to propose peaceful, constructive pathways out of the crisis. I have called for an International Conference, advocated for an inclusive Round Table, offered the hand of dialogue, and supported the idea of a Historic Political Compromise. I even suggested a “Marcoussis for Congo-Brazzaville,” inspired by the peace talks that helped Côte-d’Ivoire emerge from conflict.

All of these initiatives were systematically rejected by the ruling regime, entrenched in Oyo and dominated by the PCT, a regime clinging to power under the illusion of unconditional foreign backing. This delusion was summed up by a troubling statement attributed to Denis Sassou Nguesso:
“France cannot remove me, because everything I do is at France’s request.”

Today, as whispers of a new “dialogue” circulate once more in Paris, let us be clear and resolute:
The time for dialogue is over.

Congo no longer needs empty talk. It needs truth, courage, and a bold new course.
Now is the time to take historical responsibility, to learn from past mistakes, and to decisively initiate a political transition.

A real transition that will restore popular sovereignty, implement genuine decentralization, and encourage our youth to return and rebuild through a bold reverse migration policy.

Above all, this transition is necessary to redefine our international relations — with ambition, respect, and mutual dignity. We must move beyond clientelist arrangements toward partnerships that are ambitious, dynamic, respectful, and healthy, rooted in shared values and a common vision for the future.

History is watching us. And it will not forget.

Modeste Boukadia
President of the Circle of Democrats and Republicans of Congo (CDRC)
May 17, 2025