Catholic Bishop Urges Congolese to Speak Openly on Country’s Crisis During Inclusive National Dialogue

Bishop Melchisedec Sikuli Paluku of the Diocese of Butembo-Beni is calling on citizens in the Democratic Republic of Congo to speak candidly about the nation's challenges during a planned inclusive national dialogue. Speaking to journalists after the National Justice and Peace Day celebration on September 23, Paluku said the dialogue initiated by President Félix Tshisekedi should allow people to address why the country faces persistent insecurity, killings, and obstacles to peace, development, and freedom.

Paluku encouraged Congolese people to speak among themselves to identify what is preventing progress and why they face occupation and violence. He advised participants to look past political affiliations, such as the divisions between the political majority and the opposition. The bishop stated that the pursuit of peace, justice, and development should unite citizens regardless of their political, tribal, or territorial backgrounds.