Tshisekedi warns Congolese diaspora against division and external threats
- Politics
President Félix Tshisekedi delivered a powerful message to the Congolese diaspora in Houston during a meeting following the national team’s historic draw against Portugal in the World Cup. Addressing supporters in Texas, he emphasized national unity and vigilance against divisive forces, warning that regionalism and external interference threaten the country’s stability.
“Their accomplices have gone mad. Stay united. Do not let them deceive you using regionalism. Reject any attempt to betray our nation. The sorcerers we thought were only in Rwanda have infiltrated our ranks,” declared the Congolese leader. He also highlighted the security challenges in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, stressing the need for collective resilience.
Tshisekedi praised the performance of the Léopards, the national football team, calling their achievement a source of national pride. “The Léopards have made us proud. I’ve asked FIFA if we advance from the group stage, they’ll add more tickets for Congolese supporters here. Don’t worry. We’ll provide resources to our ambassador,” he announced.
The president framed the team’s success as a symbol of resilience amid ongoing conflicts. “Today, everyone who feared Cristiano Ronaldo saw how we played—a country at war like ours. Let’s stand tall as our national anthem commands. Show the dignity of being Congolese,” he urged.
Tshisekedi also reassured the audience about the security situation in eastern DRC, expressing optimism for imminent improvements. “I believe that in the coming days, all of Congo will be liberated. Our brothers and sisters are celebrating in Goma and Bukavu. We’ve learned our lesson—the enemies infiltrated, but now we’re building something greater,” he stated.
In a speech blending sports, politics, and national identity, the president called on the diaspora to invest in various sectors, from football and basketball to science and education. “We started with the Léopards, but we’ll extend this pride to every field—sports, academia, and beyond. Be proud to be Congolese. Restoring this pride is my mission,” he concluded.
This meeting in Houston marked a historic moment for the DRC, as the national team secured its first-ever point in a World Cup after the 1-1 draw with Portugal.
