Félix Tshisekedi, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been making headlines due to his re-election for a second term amidst widespread irregularities in the December general election. Tshisekedi's victory with over 70% of the vote has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the electoral process in the country. Additionally, Tshisekedi has requested the accelerated withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission from the DRC, citing its failure to address conflicts in the eastern region.
Born on June 13, 1963, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo is a Congolese politician who assumed office as President on January 25, 2019. He leads the Union for Democracy and Social Progress, a prominent political party in the DRC. Tshisekedi succeeded Joseph Kabila, marking the first peaceful transfer of power in the country since its independence. Despite his electoral victory, Tshisekedi's presidency has been marred by challenges, including political unrest and violence in various regions of the DRC.
-
On March 22, 2025, the Congo River Alliance announced a repositioning of M23 forces in eastern DRC, following failed peace talks with the Congolese government. This comes amid escalating violence and humanitarian crises, with over 7,000 deaths reported since January. The situation remains tense as both sides seek dialogue.
-
M23 rebels have seized control of Walikale, a strategic mining town in eastern DRC, following a failed ceasefire negotiation with the Congolese government. This advance raises concerns over humanitarian impacts and regional stability, as the town's capture disrupts military positions and threatens local mining operations. The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts continue.
-
The South African Development Community (SADC) troops are set to withdraw from eastern Congo following a joint agreement with M23 rebels. The withdrawal comes after the rebels captured key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, amid escalating violence and humanitarian crises affecting millions. The situation remains tense as ceasefire talks stall.
-
Three American citizens, Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun, have been repatriated to the U.S. after their death sentences in Congo were commuted to life imprisonment. This decision follows a meeting between U.S. officials and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, amid ongoing discussions about a minerals deal between the two nations.
-
Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila returned to Goma amid allegations of treason linked to his support for the M23 militia. His visit, which included meetings with local leaders, raises concerns about escalating violence and political instability in the region, as the government considers prosecuting him.
-
US President Donald Trump's advisor Massad Boulos announced potential multibillion-dollar investments in the Democratic Republic of Congo's mining sector following talks with President Félix Tshisekedi. The agreement aims to enhance security and economic development amid ongoing conflicts in the region. M23 rebels recently withdrew from a key mining town, Walikale.
-
On April 25, 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed a 'declaration of principles' aimed at ceasing hostilities and fostering peace amid escalating violence from Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. The agreement, witnessed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, includes commitments to explore joint security measures and enhance economic cooperation, particularly in mineral investments.
-
The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have agreed to work towards a truce following negotiations in Qatar. This development comes amid ongoing violence that has escalated since January, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to cease hostilities and reject hate speech.
-
Congo and Rwanda are advancing towards a peace agreement amid escalating conflict in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have seized key cities. U.S. involvement is seen as crucial for stabilizing the region and facilitating investment. The International Committee of the Red Cross is facilitating the transfer of Congolese soldiers back to Kinshasa.
-
The M23 rebels' control over eastern Congo has led to a surge in charcoal production, threatening the Kahuzi-Biega National Park and its unique wildlife. Conservationists warn of irreversible ecological damage as logging increases, while local vendors benefit from lower charcoal prices. The situation highlights the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in the region.
-
Former DRC President Joseph Kabila is under scrutiny for alleged ties to the M23 militia, which has seized control of Goma and other areas. Following the lifting of his immunity, Kabila's return from exile raises concerns about escalating violence and human rights abuses in the region, with over 700,000 displaced this year.