Vital Kamerhe officially assumed his duties at the Palais du Peuple, the seat of the Parliament, following his election as President of the National Assembly the previous day. Reflecting on his tenure as Speaker from 2006 to 2009, Kamerhe chose not to inherit his predecessor Christophe Mboso’s office but instead settled into his former ground-floor office.
During his inaugural activities, which included an exchange of documents, photo opportunities, and a tour of the premises, Kamerhe outlined parts of his social agenda focused on legislators and administrative staff. He emphasized his commitment to restoring the Assembly’s prestige and dignity, ensuring that national deputies honorably represent their constituents.
“We will work to restore the National Assembly’s image, elevate its prestige, and uphold the honor and dignity of national deputies so they always remember the cries and desires of the people they represent,” Kamerhe declared. “We will also ensure that national deputies work in good conditions and adhere to ethical standards befitting representatives of the people.”
Kamerhe aims to strengthen parliamentary oversight. One of his significant challenges will be ensuring transparency in managing the National Assembly’s finances, which, after the presidency, is the most budget-consuming state institution with a budget exceeding $280 million (approximately €258 million).
Another critical challenge is fostering cooperation with the judiciary. Among the issues on Kamerhe’s agenda is the request from the Prosecutor General at the Court of Cassation concerning outgoing Finance Minister and Deputy Nicolas Kazadi. Kazadi, along with his colleague from rural development, is suspected of orchestrating the embezzlement of millions of dollars through the overbilling of a water drilling contract.
Kamerhe’s final priority is securing the Assembly’s vote of confidence in the next government, underscoring his agenda’s alignment with transparency, accountability, and ethical governance as he steps into his new role as President of the DRC National Assembly.