233. Telegram From the Embassy in the Congo to the Department of State0
863. At dinner meeting September 28 Colonel Joseph Mobutu complained he has not received political support from abroad. His verbal attacks on Ghana, Guinea and UAR particularly sharp but gave no indication he is aware Moroccan role in pressuring Congolese leaders to reconcile their differences. Again emphasized his coup staged to [Page 511] save Congo from chaos and communism but in commenting on heavy pressures to which he has been subjected since September 14 he noted he sometimes wonders why he took it on himself to overthrow previous regime. In this respect he stated he does not have officers sufficiently well trained, educated or qualified in other ways to assist in carrying heavy responsibility he now must carry.
In reply to a query Mobutu said Lumumba is a dangerous demagogue who was badly influenced by Felix Moumie and a group of Guinean political advisors. He expressed distrust of Lumumba and fear of communism but when asked about his plans for future he merely commented that forthcoming round-table will settle problem and if necessary he will impose his will on the conferees.
Mobutu obviously is under great pressure and is extremely nervous. [3 lines of source text not declassified] Though he expressed view that ninety percent of army is with him he gave the impression of a man whistling in the dark.
In discussing efforts of certain powers to pressure Congolese to reconcile their differences and allow Lumumba to remain in the government I emphasized it is United States policy to oppose such pressure groups and told him the United States is making representations to various heads of government and Chiefs of Mission now attending UNGA on this matter. I also assured him United States will make every effort to support legal government appointed by Chief of State.
As Mobutu appeared almost overwhelmed by responsibilities he had assumed, I made every effort to encourage him to stand firm against Lumumba and avoid dangers of a compromise which would result eventually in a return to situation which existed prior to his coup. Only time will tell whether Mobutu has the stamina, moral courage and political savvy necessary to meet challenge of present situation.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 770G.00/9–2960. Confidential. Received at 5:38 a.m., September 30.↩