DRC: Repression of an opposition march
On Saturday May 20, 2023, the provincial police station in the city of Kinshasa deployed thousands of police officers to supervise and secure three political activities organized in the city. The march of the political parties ECIDE, ENSEMBLE POUR LA RÉPUBLIQUE, ENVOL and LGD, the UDPS youth march and the ACP meeting were concerned. The organizers of the march from the opposition political parties tried to disrupt public order by not respecting the route agreed with the urban authority. The police restored public order using force to enforce the decision of the urban authority. The provincial police station condemned the violence which led to the injury of 27 policemen and a journalist as well as the destruction of police and office vehicles. The police also arrested 14 individuals who attempted to set fire to the Kianza sub-police station and 3 police officers responsible for brutality.
This repression of the opposition is far from unanimous. Local and international human rights bodies condemned the brutality of the operation, which was carried out by the police. The Nobel Peace Prize winner also spoke out in favor of an inclusive and peaceful dialogue to allow all Congolese to participate in the political life of the country. The government was also asked to ensure the safety of all citizens, including members of the opposition, during these political events. What happened in Kinshasa on Saturday 20 May 2023 clearly shows that the situation in the DRC remains very volatile, with potential risks of political conflict and violence