139. Telegram From the Station in the Congo to the Central Intelligence Agency1

6405 (In 91600). Ref A. Dir 26397;2 B. Dir 25831;3 C. [Embassy] telegram 2421 to ODACID.4

[Omitted here is discussion of the political situation.]

7. In summation political situation remains even more confused than usual. Opposition apparently has votes to bring down govt, but as opposition lacks cohesion [Identity 1] belief that he can split opposition may yet prove correct. Leop remains pessimistic insofar as possibility [Page 197] govt will squeak through but anything possible when dealing with power-hungry individuals who put personal objectives ahead of national good. Should govt fall believe [cryptonym not declassified] plan to prolong crisis in order try push their candidate or candidates offers as good possibility as now available. Station endeavoring monitor on continuing basis opposition and [cryptonym not declassified] plans. Primary problem is that each opposition leader sets forth his views as opposition policy when in reality these leaders are generally speaking only for themselves or at most their small group. (However Leop continuing report info as received on theory it of use to HQS and ODACID in trying piece together picture confused political struggle going on here. Will continue do so unless advised to contrary.) As for [cryptonym not declassified] their views provide more solid intel but even then their statements cannot be accepted en toto. They too are confused and desperately seeking and considering various alternative solutions. As new developments arise their position shifts. In short, Leop proceeding on hypothesis that worst may occur and trying to prepare for any one of a number of possible eventualities.

8. Refs A and B most helpful. Would appreciate continuing guidance whenever feasible.5

  1. Source: Central Intelligence Agency Files, Job 78–00435R, DDO/ISS Files, Box 2, Folder 1, [cryptonym not declassified] Operations. Secret; Rybat; [cryptonym not declassified]. No time of receipt appears on the message.
  2. Guidance for Leop to strengthen incumbent government. [Footnote in the original.] This CIA telegram has not been found.
  3. Meeting with ODACID on 18 March established the interim policy that in the event of a motion of censure being tabled, ODYOKE would continue to support the incumbent government if there continued to be any indication that it would squeak through. [Footnote in the original.] CIA telegram 25831, March 19, stated that the [text not declassified] project had been approved, but with a series of caveats requiring assessment of the project and detailed follow-up on expenditures. (Central Intelligence Agency Files, Job 78–00435R, DDO/ISS Files, Box 2, Folder 1, [cryptonym not declassified] Operations)
  4. Summary of lengthy discussion with Adoula, in which he predicted that his reshuffled government would obtain a comfortable majority, noting that the opposition was divided. [Footnote in the original.] This Department of State telegram has not been found.
  5. CIA telegram 28182 to Leopoldville, March 27, informed the Station that Headquarters far preferred that the new political organization not be centered on Adoula personally but be based on the inner [text not declassified] circle, which should include one or two alternatives to Adoula for the top slot and have enough leadership flexibility to permit party reshuffles without changing party complexion. It suggested that the organization be built at two levels—one (overt) based on the essential tribal structure of the Congo and the second [text not declassified] to be a control commission type of inner leadership capable of imposing discipline on key figures. It was also essential that Nendaka and Mobutu be part of the inner circle. (Central Intelligence Agency Files, Job 78–00435R, DDO/ISS Files, Box 2, Folder 1, [cryptonym not declassified] Operations)