President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has agreed to meet Martin Fayulu, his political rival, in an effort to “save” the country.
Tshisekedi confirmed his readiness to meet Fayulu through his spokesperson, Tina Salama.
On X (formerly Twitter), she posted:
“The President of the Republic appreciates Mr. Martin Fayulu’s patriotism and commitment to national unity, and confirms his willingness to meet with him to rescue the Republic from dangers threatening our institutions and national integrity.”
Tshisekedi and Fayulu have long been at odds since the disputed 2018 presidential election, during which Fayulu accused Tshisekedi of stealing the victory.
Nearly all Congolese, including Corneille Nangaa, former head of the Electoral Commission, believe that Fayulu won the election. Nonetheless, Tshisekedi assumed power after agreeing vote tallies with Joseph Kabila’s administration.
Tshisekedi’s willingness to meet Fayulu comes just hours after Fayulu publicly called on the president to engage with opposition figures to help rescue the DRC from its current crises.
Fayulu also extended his gesture towards the Alliance Fleuve Congo coalition—currently led by Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa—of which the M23 rebel group is part.
Additional reports indicate that Tshisekedi agreed to the meeting after the two men met privately on the night of last Saturday.
