Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi is facing significant challenges in securing international support against the Rwanda-backed M23 rebellion, with recent diplomatic efforts yielding little tangible progress. Despite his appeals to global leaders, the escalating crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has heightened concerns over potential regional instability.
According to AFP, Tshisekedi’s diplomatic engagements including visits to Angola and participation in the Munich Security Conference have not resulted in a decisive international response. Meanwhile, M23 rebels, widely believed to be supported by Rwanda despite Kigali’s denials, have seized two strategic cities in eastern DRC.
The Congolese army has suffered repeated setbacks against M23, a rebel group that has long exploited the region’s vast mineral resources. Analysts suggest that the government’s inability to counter the offensive is politically damaging for Tshisekedi.
Trésor Kibangula, a political analyst at the Ebuteli research institute in Kinshasa, noted that the continued military failures raise concerns about the president’s capacity to navigate the crisis. He cautioned that if Tshisekedi does not regain control of the situation, it could mark a turning point for his administration. A source close to the presidency described growing unease within the government, likening the prevailing sentiment to an ‘end-of-rule’ moment.
The rising tensions have already prompted some international organisations to evacuate staff from Kinshasa in anticipation of further instability. Tshisekedi has persistently called for sanctions against Rwanda over its alleged support for M23, but the United Nations and the European Union have yet to take decisive action.
During his visit to Luanda, he met with Angolan President João Lourenço, who has played a mediation role in the conflict. However, their discussions did not yield any concrete measures. At the Munich Security Conference, Tshisekedi adopted a more forceful stance, urging the international community to diplomatically isolate Rwanda. He also accused his predecessor, Joseph Kabila, of colluding with Rwanda in what he described as ‘a coup against the republic’.
Despite these efforts, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has remained defiant, recently stating that he would not be intimidated by the threat of sanctions. The absence of a unified international response has raised fears that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war.
Paul-Simon Handy, regional director for East Africa at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), emphasised the need for stronger state institutions in the DRC, asserting that stability in the Great Lakes region depends on the country’s ability to protect its borders and govern effectively.
As M23 continues to gain ground, Tshisekedi faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally. With no immediate resolution in sight, his leadership will likely be severely tested in the coming months.
