On September 22, 2025, Vital Kamerhe announced his resignation as President of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s National Assembly, just before a scheduled vote on a petition challenging his leadership.
The Assembly’s first vice president shared the news, followed by Kamerhe’s address to lawmakers.
Focus on National Goals
Kamerhe described his exit as a selfless act to shift attention to pressing national issues, including unity, sovereignty, and economic growth. He urged lawmakers to prioritize these over internal disputes.
Petition Controversy
The petition against Kamerhe centered on concerns about the National Assembly’s operations. His supporters questioned its validity, calling it baseless, while opposition figures dismissed the process as a political stunt.
Tshisekedi’s Stance
President Félix Tshisekedi, speaking from New York, distanced himself from the controversy, calling Kamerhe a loyal ally and denying any role in the petition.
Kamerhe’s Past
Kamerhe’s resignation follows a turbulent history. In 2020, he was convicted of embezzlement, but the ruling was later reversed.
He regained prominence in 2024, reclaiming a key political role before this latest development.
Political Implications
The resignation highlights tensions within Congo’s political landscape, with debates over leadership and governance taking center stage.
As the nation navigates these challenges, Kamerhe’s exit may reshape dynamics in the National Assembly ahead of future legislative sessions.