Civil society organizations in the Democratic Republic of Congo have launched the Kasangulu Manifesto, a citizen-led roadmap designed to guide the nation’s political, economic, and social reconstruction. The initiative, spearheaded by the Crisis Committee of Civil Society for Peace and Security in DRC (CCPS-RDC), represents a collaborative effort to address the country’s deepening governance, security, and developmental challenges.

The manifesto emerged from a nationwide participatory process involving representatives from across the DRC’s provinces. It outlines a unified vision for national transformation, emphasizing responsible governance, peacebuilding, social justice, citizen participation, and environmental sustainability. According to organizers, the document serves as both a reflection of public aspirations and a practical guide for policymakers.

Symbolic launch ahead of independence day

The manifesto’s unveiling on June 26, 2026, held special significance as it coincided with the eve of the DRC’s Independence Day. Speaking at the event, Me Patient Bashombe Matabishi, Coordinator of CCPS-RDC, underscored the historic stakes of the initiative:

“We launched the Kasangulu Manifesto today because it was in Kasangulu that the drafting commission convened. This document embodies the vision of civil society for the Congo’s renewal. Our nation faces an unprecedented crisis, and the question is no longer whether change is needed, but how we achieve it. The Manifesto offers a clear path forward.”

He emphasized that the initiative transcends partisan politics, urging all Congolese—regardless of background—to embrace the manifesto as their own:

“This is not a document for politicians alone. The Congo belongs to every citizen. The Manifesto is a call to action for all patriots to defend our republic. The debate on our future must include every voice, from the villages to the diaspora.”

A vision for democratic renewal

The manifesto’s framework, titled the Citizen Democratic Revolution, was presented by Daie Mutombe Pierrot, President of the Congolese Onusiens. The document outlines priorities such as strengthening the rule of law, enhancing economic resilience, and fostering inclusive development. Me Matabishi was elected President of the BLOC-RDC movement, with Professor Iyoka Jean Bedel named Secretary-General.

The initiative drew broad participation, including representatives from youth groups, women’s organizations, human rights defenders, academics, and local leaders. Attendees commended the manifesto’s comprehensive approach and called for a national campaign to ensure its adoption nationwide and among the Congolese diaspora.

Constitutional reform debate

The manifesto launch occurs amid intense national discussions on constitutional reform. Me Matabishi clarified the civil society’s stance, warning against piecemeal changes that could exacerbate divisions:

“The Constitution is the foundation of national unity. While reform is permissible, any process must prioritize consensus and avoid undermining our collective cohesion. Articles that were locked in place by consensus cannot be altered without broad agreement. Our goal is to make this Manifesto a foundational text for the country’s future.”

The DRC’s ongoing security crisis, exacerbated by foreign-backed armed groups and regional tensions, further complicates the reform debate. With over 5 million internally displaced persons and a deteriorating humanitarian situation, civil society leaders stress that stability hinges on inclusive governance and sustainable peacebuilding.

Closing the event, CCPS-RDC urged all segments of society to rally behind the manifesto as a critical contribution to the DRC’s reconstruction, peace, and democratic future.