Wan‑Bissaka Tops List of Names of Disputed DR Congo Players in AFCON Squad Despite Dual Nationality Controversy

DR Congo has included several players at the centre of a nationality dispute in its final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, despite reports that Nigeria has lodged a protest with FIFA over the eligibility of some Congolese footballers alleged to hold dual nationalities.

Dual citizenship is reportedly not permitted under DR Congo’s constitution, yet the country’s football federation appears unfazed as it moves forward with its AFCON preparations.

The controversy stems from Article 10 of the 2006 Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which states that Congolese nationality is ‘one and exclusive.’

Under this provision, a Congolese citizen cannot legally hold another nationality at the same time. Any Congolese who acquires a second nationality is considered to have forfeited their Congolese citizenship.

Children born abroad to Congolese parents may temporarily hold two nationalities, but they must choose one by the age of 21. This legal framework has long been at the heart of nationality disputes involving Congolese athletes across various sports.

Government publications and statements from the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Interior have consistently reinforced this position, insisting that dual nationality is not recognised and that any adult holding another citizenship is not legally Congolese unless they renounce the foreign one.

Despite this, several players with dual nationality backgrounds continue to feature for DR Congo.

Aaron Wan‑Bissaka, born in England to Congolese parents, made a single appearance for DR Congo’s U20 team in 2015 before switching to England’s youth system.

He represented England at U20 and U21 levels, earning a senior call‑up in 2019, although he has yet to make a senior appearance due to competition in his position. His case remains one of the most frequently cited examples in discussions about DR Congo’s nationality rules.

Cédric Bakambu, born in France, represented the French national team at youth level, scoring eight goals in 38 appearances and winning the 2010 UEFA European Under‑19 Championship. He later switched allegiance and made his senior debut for DR Congo in 2015.

Bakambu has since become one of the team’s most prominent players.

Another player in the spotlight is Samuel Essende, born in France and currently playing for FC Augsburg in the German Bundesliga.