Who are Tshisekedi’s - Felix Failure to control M23 - Africa history

Introduction

The Tshisekedi family has played a significant role in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) political landscape for decades. Two key figures from this family have shaped the country’s recent history:

Étienne Tshisekedi

Étienne Tshisekedi wa Mulumba (1932-2017) was a prominent Congolese politician and the founder of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), the country’s first opposition party. Born in Luluabourg (now Kananga) in 1932, he was a member of the Luba ethnic group.

Key points about Étienne Tshisekedi:

Served as Prime Minister of Zaire (now DRC) three times in the 1990s

Founded the UDPS in 1982, becoming the main opposition voice against Mobutu Sese Seko’s dictatorship

Faced numerous imprisonments and periods of house arrest for his political activities

Boycotted the 2006 elections, claiming they were fraudulent

Ran for president in 2011 but lost to Joseph Kabila in a disputed election

Félix Tshisekedi

Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, born on June 13, 1963, in Kinshasa, is the current President of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the son of Étienne Tshisekedi.

Key points about Félix Tshisekedi:

Became leader of the UDPS party in March 2018, following his father’s death

Won the 2018 presidential election, taking office on January 25, 2019

His victory was controversial, with allegations of irregularities and a possible deal with outgoing president Joseph Kabila

Initiated economic reforms, including reviews of mining contracts with China

Re-elected for a second term in December 2023, winning 73% of the vote amid opposition protests

Félix Tshisekedi’s presidency has been marked by efforts to address economic challenges, improve regional cooperation, and deal with ongoing security issues in eastern Congo. He has also faced criticism for not fully resolving these problems and for the disputed nature of his initial election.

Félix Tshisekedi - Control on M23

Félix Tshisekedi’s failure to control the M23 rebellion in eastern DRC stems from several factors:

Rwandan Support for M23

Rwanda provides military, logistical, and financial backing to M23, including advanced weaponry and training, which has significantly bolstered the group’s capabilities.

Weak Governance

Corruption and inefficiency within the Congolese government and security forces have undermined efforts to address the crisis, despite Tshisekedi’s attempts to mobilize international and regional support.

Ethnic and Regional Complexities

Deep-rooted ethnic tensions and Rwanda’s claims of protecting Tutsis in DRC further complicate peace efforts.

Failed Peace Initiative

Previous agreements with M23 have collapsed due to unmet commitments, while Tshisekedi’s refusal to negotiate with M23 as a legitimate entity has stalled diplomacy.

Conclusion

The Tshisekedi family’s political legacy continues to shape the DRC’s political landscape, with Félix Tshisekedi building upon his father’s opposition work to become the country’s leader.