UNC YOUTH LEAGUE URGES CALM AND UNITY AMID PETITION AGAINST NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SPEAKER VITAL KAMERHE
The youth league of the Union for the Congolese Nation (UNC) has called for restraint and unity in response to the growing controversy surrounding the petition against National Assembly Speaker Vital Kamerhe. Speaking in Kinshasa on Monday, September 15, UNC Youth League President Yves Nswal urged members of Parliament to act responsibly and avoid actions that could divide the nation during a time of crisis.
“A petition is certainly a legitimate parliamentary exercise, but it must not become an instrument of division,” Nswal said, warning that the political climate in the country is too fragile to sustain internal conflict. He noted that many of the grievances raised by the petitioning MPs have already been acknowledged and addressed by the National Assembly’s leadership.
According to Nswal, the Democratic Republic of Congo is navigating one of the most difficult moments in its recent history. With the ongoing war in the east, widespread displacement, and economic instability, he believes Parliament should prioritize national unity and focus on the pressing issues facing the country — particularly the adoption of the national budget.
“The Republic is going through a critical period. While we are debating here, our brothers and sisters in the East continue to live the nightmare of war,” he said. “Dividing the political family at a time when the Head of State needs everyone’s support is weakening the Republic.”
The petition against Speaker Vital Kamerhe — who also leads the UNC and serves as one of the key political allies of President Félix Tshisekedi — has reportedly gained traction among some MPs dissatisfied with the Assembly’s internal management. However, the UNC youth wing believes the petition risks being used for political maneuvering rather than constructive oversight.
Nswal appealed for dialogue within Parliament, emphasizing that disagreements should be resolved through consultation and mutual respect. “Our democracy grows through debate, not destruction,” he said. “Let us not allow personal ambitions or factional agendas to overshadow the collective interest of the Congolese people.”
The UNC Youth League reaffirmed its loyalty to Kamerhe and the values of the party, which it described as rooted in peace, dialogue, and responsible governance. It also called on young people across political lines to reject polarization and focus on rebuilding trust in the country’s institutions.
“The future of Congo must take precedence over internal political disputes,” Nswal declared. “This is not the time for division — it is the time for solidarity, discipline, and service to the nation.”
As tensions simmer in Parliament, the UNC leadership is expected to hold internal consultations to de-escalate the situation. Observers say how the ruling coalition handles this episode could signal its capacity to maintain cohesion amid mounting national challenges.
Nice words, but where was this call for unity when Kamerhe himself was under pressure? The UNC only talks about peace when their leader is attacked. Politics in Congo has become about protecting friends, not protecting the people. Soyons honnêtes. The youth league means well, but the problem is deeper. Unity cannot exist without accountability. If MPs have real concerns about corruption or mismanagement, they should be free to speak. Calling for unity should not mean silencing criticism.
It’s refreshing to see a political youth group calling for peace instead of chaos. Most times young politicians are used as instruments of conflict, but here they are asking for dialogue. C’est un bon signe. Congo needs more calm voices like this one, especially when the country faces so many crises. Very balanced article. It shows that not everyone in politics wants to see the country burn. Whether you support Kamerhe or not, Nswal’s message makes sense, we can’t afford division while people in the East are dying and the budget is pending. Let’s focus on real priorities for once.