National Dialogue Push: DR Congo’s government is yielding to calls for a national dialogue, but analysts warn the goal is unclear as M23 controls parts of the east with Rwanda-backed forces, and as Tshisekedi’s constitutional maneuvering raises fears the talks could become a mismatch of agendas. Third-Term Politics: Kinshasa residents are split after the constitutional court approved a referendum path that could let Félix Tshisekedi seek a third term beyond 2028, amid opposition claims of a power grab. Ebola Crisis, Human Side: The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is now the second largest ever recorded, with WHO reporting thousands of confirmed cases and heavy death tolls, while Kinshasa says daily life is still “normal” and residents keep buying masks and disinfectants. Frontline Attacks & Misinformation: In Ituri, Red Cross volunteers were attacked during Ebola burial operations after rumors spread, showing how mistrust is now as dangerous as the virus itself. Vaccine Milestone: Oxford researchers began testing a new Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine, aiming to protect against a strain with no dedicated vaccine yet. East-Border Tensions: Congo and Rwanda clash over a protocol for disarming the FDLR, with Kigali rejecting it as inconsistent with a US-brokered peace deal. Local Life Disrupted: A June bridge collapse in Hombo (Walikale territory) left commerce and food supply at risk even without reported deaths. Health Workforce Strain: New research highlights how unequal working conditions for maternal and neonatal health staff in eastern DRC can undermine care quality during crises.