In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Félix Tshisekedi is attempting to initiate a wide-reaching national dialogue aimed at promoting peace, unity, and the restructuring of the country’s governance. The plan involves consulting the DRC’s 26 provinces before moving forward with national-level discussions, with the goal of creating a National Pact—a formal agreement meant to address key political, social, and economic challenges. This initiative comes as the country continues to grapple with deep divisions and ongoing conflicts, particularly in the eastern regions. The proposed dialogue has already sparked controversy, with many in the opposition rejecting the framework laid out by the president. Critics argue that the process lacks sufficient guarantees of inclusiveness and neutrality, and that it does not adequately represent the voices of all Congolese citizens. Some groups feel sidelined, including the Alliance of the Forces of Change (AFC), which is currently led by former rebel group M23. Notably, M23 is excluded from the political dialogue, despite being a key player in the ongoing conflict in the east. The eastern part of the DRC remains a flashpoint for violence, with clashes and instability persisting despite efforts to bring peace. This region has long been plagued by armed groups, weak governance, and external influences, making it central to the country's broader crisis. The exclusion of M23 from the dialogue has further fueled tensions, as many believe that lasting peace cannot be achieved without including all relevant stakeholders. In an analysis for the Journal of Africa, Congolese political analyst Christian Moleka highlights the challenges ahead. He notes that while President Tshisekedi’s initiative is a step toward addressing the country’s deep fractures, it must be inclusive and transparent to gain legitimacy. Without addressing the concerns of the opposition and incorporating groups like M23, the dialogue risks failing to produce meaningful change and could further deepen the divisions within the country.