Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Africa, Volume XIV

146. Telegram From the Consulate at Elisabethville to the Department of State⁰

Elisabethville, July 23, 1960, 9 a.m.

19. Reference: Circular 129¹ and Contel 13.² In considering problem as set forth in circular telegram, consulate wonders at omission from argument of primary preoccupation Katanga leaders, namely prospect Soviet Union might intervene in Congo if Katanga becomes independent and turn area into major east-west battleground. While post believes this remote possibility, it is nevertheless credited by leaders Katanga Government and Belgian forces as being one important deterrent to recognition by western powers.

Leaving aside this consideration, consulate believes cardinal issue is Department’s appraisal of Lumumba and probable course his regime will take. If he were overthrown as result present chaotic situation Congo, I believe western powers, perhaps with aid of UN, could bring Tshombe into agreement on loose confederation Congo provinces under presidency Kasavubu or another moderate leader. Katanga could retain trappings of statehood while surrendering much of the substance. However, if Lumumba remains as Premier, believe Tshombe and Conakat have gone too far in opposing him to fit into any scheme where Lumumba has ultimate control of army.

Utter disorganization Congo at this point leads me to conclude strong central government can be established only if Lumumba able set up ruthless authoritarian regime and impose rule of force on provinces. If Lumumba succeeds in dominating Katanga, any promise rapid economic recovery and prospect political liberalism in this area would be sacrificed in interest maintaining what are basically artificial Colonial frontiers. If he fails in this, Katanga probably destined to drift away from Leopoldville in any event.

Foremost argument for Katanga independence is likelihood that a moderate government located in this strategic region of Africa will maintain pro-western orientation. Effect on NATO alliance of preservation Belgian interests here also important, although I believe GOB conscious of headaches inherent in remaining here and is primarily concerned with redeeming national honor by securing area of influence for Belgian interests and residents who appear completely washed up in remainder of Congo.

Weaknesses Katanga regime are evident. Tshombe and ministers incapable governing now and appear willing front for white technicians until they can learn art of statecraft. Sooner or later African population will demand changes in this arrangement but meanwhile European business interests may have worked out satisfactory accommodation with emerging leaders. Another weakness is poor quality of majority of white settlers backing Tshombe, which may have been major consideration in hesitation important Belgian economic interests to espouse cause of separatists. Finally, heavy leaning by Katanga on Belgium might even totally embarrass latter and even involve Belgian troops in incidents with other Congo provinces.

While opposition within Katanga to independence exists and may be expected increase, it appears inarticulate for moment for reasons given in reference Contel.² Although no public announcement yet made, Jason Sendwe and his lieutenants reported willing (but obviously not eager) join Tshombe Government. Belgian brigade officers strongly desire remain here and now occupy 18 strategic centers with some 1,800 troops.

If Department believes Lumumba regime likely become Communist, Katanga offers golden opportunity for US. If it believes some good can result from its support of Lumumba’s authority, then sacrifice of Katanga’s interests might be justified on ground of greatest good for greatest number Congolese. However, I think it important we have clear understanding of objectives for which we are willing to sacrifice Katanga.

Canup

0. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 770G.00/7–2360. Secret; Priority; Eyes Only.
1. Document 143.
2. Telegram 13, July 20, reported that the European community in Katanga intended to run the province from behind the scenes with Tshombe’s consent and to transfer the head offices of all important Congo firms from Léopoldville to Katanga. (Department of State, Central Files, 770G.00/7–2060)
2. Telegram 13 reported that Tshombe’s support had increased due to the disorganization of the opposition, the absence of Jason Sendwe, who represented Elisabethville in the Congo Chamber of Representatives, and the lack of clear alternatives for Katanga. It predicted, however, that a strong reaction would set in against the concept of an “independent Katanga serving interests western business in central Africa.”