Coalition demands constitutional safeguards before engaging in talks
The Article 64 Coalition for the defense of constitutional order concluded its visit to Bujumbura on July 9, 2026, following a meeting with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye. The coalition, led by Martin Fayulu, clarified that no formal request for the encounter was made by its members, who argued that the initiative came from the Burundian head of state in his capacity as the current chair of the African Union.
Key conditions set for political dialogue
The coalition leaders emphasized that any meaningful dialogue must be grounded in strict adherence to constitutional principles. They outlined several non-negotiable demands, including the immediate abandonment of proposed constitutional amendments, the unconditional release of political prisoners, the halting of politically motivated prosecutions, and the restoration of civil liberties. These conditions, they asserted, are essential to addressing the root causes of the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The coalition members stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and the sovereignty of the Congolese people. They criticized previous peace processes for failing to address the political dimensions of the conflict, which, they argue, have contributed to the current stalemate. Fayulu and his allies warned that the proposed constitutional changes under President Félix Tshisekedi, coupled with the ongoing war and territorial occupation, represent a major obstacle to stability and must be reversed without delay.
A call for accountability and peaceful protest
The coalition announced its intention to stage a peaceful march on July 22 towards the Palais de la Nation, the seat of government. Their primary demand during the demonstration will be the resignation of President Tshisekedi, whom they accuse of breaching his constitutional oath. The leaders of the Article 64 Coalition insist that only a return to constitutional governance can restore trust and pave the way for genuine reconciliation in the country.
