The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda are heading towards a major diplomatic clash over the leadership of the International Organisation of the Francophonie (OIF), as tensions remain high between the two countries due to the conflict in eastern Congo.
The organization's current Secretary-General, Louise Mushikiwabo, backed by Kigali, is seeking a third term. Kinshasa has decided to support a rival candidate, setting the stage for a particularly sensitive power struggle within the Francophone community.
The deadline for submitting applications for the position of Secretary General of the OIF was Friday. The organization represents more than 320 million French speakers worldwide and brings together 90 states and governments, giving its leadership significant diplomatic weight.
This political battle comes at a time when relations between Kigali and Kinshasa remain extremely tense. Since the beginning of 2025, AFC/M23 rebels have taken control of the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu in eastern Congo.
Congolese authorities, several Western countries, and United Nations experts accuse Rwanda of supporting the insurgents. Kigali firmly rejects these accusations and denies any involvement in the fighting that is shaking the region.
Despite mediation efforts led by the United States, Qatar and the African Union, no lasting agreement has yet been reached to end the violence in eastern Congo.
Beyond its symbolic significance, the position of Secretary General of the Francophonie plays a strategic role in the fields of education, human rights, economic cooperation, and cultural policy. The upcoming election could therefore become a new battleground for diplomatic confrontation between two already deeply divided neighbors.
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