The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has announced that it will present a candidate for the position of Secretary General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). The move sets up a contest with Rwandan national Louise Mushikiwabo, who is seeking another term.
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Cabinet Meeting Confirms Decision
President Félix Tshisekedi chaired a Cabinet meeting on 30 January 2026 where the government approved the decision. The meeting mainly focused on security challenges in eastern DRC, but leaders also discussed regional and international affairs.
Government Spokesperson Makes Announcement
After the meeting, the Minister of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya, confirmed the decision. He stated clearly that the DRC will present its own candidate for the OIF Secretary General position.
Rwanda’s Support for Mushikiwabo
The announcement comes weeks after Rwanda officially endorsed Louise Mushikiwabo for a third term. Several OIF member states requested her continuation in office. They praised her leadership and expressed confidence in her performance over nearly eight years.
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Possible Candidate and Election Timeline
The DRC has previously raised concerns about Rwanda retaining the OIF leadership. As a result, it began exploring alternative candidates. One possible nominee is Isidore Kwandja Ngembo, who has served as an OIF election observer and helped organize the OIF Games in Kinshasa in 2023. The election will take place during the OIF Summit scheduled for 15–16 November 2026 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
