Seth Kikuni Rejects Dialogue Without Preconditions

KINSHASA February 26, 2026 - In exile since mid-January, opposition leader Seth Kikuni stressed that any national dialogue in the Democratic Republic of Congo cannot be credible in a context of repression. Responding to Martin Fayulu, who had proposed topics for discussion, Kikuni called for clear prerequisites, including a ceasefire and the cessation of all forms of political repression. “The opposition will not engage in dialogue unless it is based on clear, credible, and verifiable preconditions,” wrote Kikuni on X, emphasizing that dialogue in a context of injustice, intimidation, and deprivation of fundamental rights risks legitimizing the status quo. Among Kikuni’s preconditions for an inclusive dialogue are: Release of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience Lifting of politically motivated convictions Restoration of civil and political rights, including the return of passports and freedom of movement for political actors Annulment of politically motivated legal proceedings and lifting of arrest warrants Reparations for damages suffered Martin Fayulu, meanwhile, has called for a dialogue giving voice to all segments of society, including armed groups, outlining seven essential discussion points: Preservation of DRC sovereignty and army/security reforms Promotion of ethical governance, public finance reform, and anti-corruption measures Strengthening justice, human rights, and equality before the law Electoral reforms to ensure transparency for the 2028 elections Peaceful coexistence among Congolese ethnic groups Regional stability in the Great Lakes region Review and analysis of past national dialogue resolutions since 1958 to develop a coherent governance doctrine Kikuni and other opposition leaders insist that participation criteria must ensure tangible benefits for the Congolese people, rejecting any dialogue reduced to a mere political exercise.