President will try to fracture Congolese opposition

Significance

On March 3 the main opposition bloc in the DRC, Le Rassemblement (or the Rally), announced that Tshisekedi, whose UDPS is one of the central groups comprising the Rally, had taken over as leader following the death of his father and former leader Etienne Tshisekedi. Although a known political figure, Felix lacks both the experience and political savvy of his late father. Under his leadership, the opposition may fracture as politicians work towards implementing a fragile political accord agreed to at the start of the year.

Impacts

• Western states will condemn any attempt by Kabila to change the constitution.
• Developments in the mining sector and rising commodity prices will improve Kinshasa’s fiscal position.
• Restive eastern regions will witness an escalation in conflict until elections are held.