Congo's political battles threaten governance capacity

Subject

Post-election political outlook for Congo.

Significance

Six months after landmark elections, Congo remains without a new government. An uncomfortable coalition between new President Felix Tshisekedi and former President Joseph Kabila continues to evolve, but the struggle for power and control of the country’s institutions is far from over.

Impacts

• Tshisekedi can face Kabila for now in part because of public support; this may evaporate if he cannot improve living conditions.
• The longer governance challenges persist, the higher the internal pressures will grow inside the three main political camps.
• Despite the return from exile of several key leaders, the opposition Lamuka coalition is in disarray and may collapse.