In a press release, Youssouf acknowledged President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo’s efforts to foster an inclusive national political dialogue to engage all relevant political and social stakeholders while respecting the country’s institutions.

He remembered the African Union (AU)’s commitment to the principles enshrined in its Constitutive Act, the 2000 Lome Declaration, and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, all of which condemn unconstitutional changes of government, particularly the seizure of power by force and the overthrow of democratically established institutions.

The AU chief called on all political leaders and parties involved to rely exclusively on peaceful means, exercise restraint, and refrain from any initiative that could fuel tensions or jeopardize the prospects for dialogue and national reconciliation.

Youssouf also reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering commitment to the DRC’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.

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