DRC threatens to quit Francophonie over Rwanda's Mushikiwabo
Kinshasa seeks to block Rwandan incumbent Louise Mushikiwabo from a third term as OIF Secretary-General.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has threatened to withdraw from the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) if Rwanda's Louise Mushikiwabo wins a third term as Secretary-General. This threat emerges as Kinshasa actively campaigns against Mushikiwabo's re-election and supports its own candidate, Juliana Amato Lumumba. The OIF summit is scheduled to take place in Cambodia.
Mushikiwabo, who has served as OIF leader since January 2019, is seeking another four-year mandate, with Rwanda officially endorsing her bid based on her record of institutional reforms. Congolese authorities are reportedly considering leaving the organisation if the Rwandan candidate secures re-election, according to reports from Jeune Afrique and Congolese media, though no formal announcement has been made.
The diplomatic tension coincides with strained relations between Kigali and Kinshasa over the conflict in eastern Congo, where the DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the M23/AFC armed group, an accusation Rwanda denies. Rwanda has also voiced concerns about armed groups like the FDLR operating in eastern Congo.
Why it mattersThe DRC's potential withdrawal from the OIF could impact diplomatic relations and the organisation's future leadership.