The Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi has undertaken a significant cabinet reshuffle, replacing 46 out of 56 ministers. This move is seen as a strategic consolidation of power, marking the end of the era of shared power in the country. The new cabinet comprises loyalists, technocrats, and a younger generation of leaders aligned with Tshisekedi’s vision.
The appointments of key ministers, including economist Nicolas Kazadi as finance minister, Antoinette N’Samba Kalambayi as mining minister, and retired general Daniel Aselo Okito as interior minister, indicate Tshisekedi’s intention to control the country’s political economy. These ministries are crucial in channeling state power, fueling the country’s GDP, and overseeing security and domestic authority.
The reshuffle also signals the decline of former President Joseph Kabila’s influence, as his allies are being replaced or neutralized. Kabila, however, remains a significant figure with a loyal base in the mineral-rich province of Katanga. He may wait for opportunities to regroup and exploit potential fractures in the system.
The international community, particularly the United States, is watching the developments with caution. While Tshisekedi has been seen as a reformist partner, the concentration of power in his hands raises concerns about democratic backsliding. The US may praise Congo’s commitment to stability while privately warning against authoritarian tendencies.
Tshisekedi’s political maneuvering has positioned him as the most commanding Congolese president in a generation. However, the real test of his leadership will be in delivering better governance, security, and accountability. If the consolidation of power yields reform, Tshisekedi may break the country’s post-Kabila paralysis. Otherwise, the cycle of patronage and instability may continue.
The presidency’s move to remake the country’s fractured politics in its own image marks a significant shift in Congo’s political landscape. As the country navigates this new era, the international community will be closely monitoring developments, seeking assurances that Tshisekedi’s consolidation of power will lead to meaningful reform and progress.