Bujumbura, July 7, 2026 (TOP243NEWS) – Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who currently serves as Chairperson of the African Union, hosted several prominent figures from the Congolese political opposition and representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s leading religious denominations in Bujumbura on Monday. The consultations come at a time when the DRC’s political landscape remains marked by heightened tensions over a possible constitutional reform.
According to information obtained by TOP243NEWS Media Group, the consultations brought together leaders of the C-64 coalition, including Martin Fayulu, Delly Sesanga, Jean-Marc Kabund, a representative of Moïse Katumbi, and a representative of the political party of Matata Ponyo Mapon.
Religious leaders were also represented by Monsignor Donatien Nshole, Secretary-General of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), Bishop Ejiba Yamapia representing the Church of Christ Revival (ERC), as well as a representative of the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC).
No official statement was issued following the meeting, and neither the Burundian presidency nor the Congolese delegations disclosed the substance of the discussions.
A Regional Mediation Effort in the Making?
The consultations take place amid growing political tensions in the DRC, where debates over a possible constitutional amendment have deepened divisions between the presidential majority and sections of the opposition. For several months, religious leaders have been calling for an inclusive national dialogue to ease political tensions.
In his capacity as the current Chairperson of the African Union, President Évariste Ndayishimiye appears to be intensifying consultations with key Congolese stakeholders. While no formal mediation mandate has been announced, the series of meetings could reflect an emerging diplomatic effort aimed at fostering dialogue and preventing further political escalation.
A Fragile Regional Context
The consultations also come as the Great Lakes region continues to face significant security challenges, particularly in eastern DRC, where diplomatic initiatives led by the African Union (AU), the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are supporting broader efforts to restore stability.
The evolution of this initiative will be closely watched as Congolese political actors remain divided over institutional reforms and the mechanisms needed to preserve national consensus ahead of the country’s next major political milestones.
By Mike Pakoto.