Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Tibor Nagy, has said he deeply regrets advocating for the U.S. to support Tshisekedi as the winner of Congo’s 2018 elections. He explained that he initially believed Tshisekedi would bring positive change to the country, but now feels he was seriously wrong.
The former diplomat made the remarks after President Tshisekedi reiterated his intention to potentially seek a third presidential term, following discussions around possible amendments to the country’s Constitution.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Tshisekedi used cautious political language, saying he does not personally seek a third term but would accept one if it reflects the will of the Congolese people.
“I did not seek a third term, but I’m telling you: if the people want me to have a third term, I will accept,” Tshisekedi said.
Opposition politicians in Congo strongly oppose any constitutional reforms that could allow a third term. Tshisekedi, however, insists that any such decision would ultimately belong to the people.
“For me, if there is to be any change, revision, or whatever needs to be done, it will never be without consulting the population, the Congolese people, that is to say, through a referendum,” he said.
The Congolese president also stated that if the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo continues, elections scheduled for 2028 may not take place.
“If we can’t bring this war to an end, unfortunately we won’t be able to hold the elections in 2028,” he said, adding that authorities would not organise a vote without the participation of the two eastern provinces.
Tshisekedi, currently serving his second term, has long faced criticism from several Congolese political figures who argue that he did not legitimately win his first mandate. Among those who have raised concerns is former President Joseph Kabila, whom Tshisekedi succeeded.
Reacting to a report published by Africanews, Tibor Nagy openly expressed regret over his earlier support for Tshisekedi.
“One of my greatest regrets from my time as US AsstSecState for Africa was advocating for US to support Tshisekedi as winner of Congo’s 2018 elections,” he said.
Nagy further explained why he had initially backed Tshisekedi: “I thought he would really be different and advance the Congolese people’s interests. How wrong I was!”
Several prominent Congolese political figures, including former President Joseph Kabila, argue that since Tshisekedi came to power, the country has faced growing instability and numerous challenges, including increased foreign involvement in its internal affairs.
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