Restrictions on democratic space in Kasai-Central province: a bleak picture
In a July 7, 2023 statement, the citizen movement Lutte pour leChange (LUCHA) sheds light on the growing restrictions of democratic space in the province of Kasaï-Central in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to LUCHA, since Governor John Kabeya Shikeyi came to power, numerous acts of political intolerance, vandalism, physical attacks, torture, intimidation, arbitrary arrests and programs inciting hatred have been recorded in the region.
LUCHA emphasizes that these acts are perpetrated by a group of activists belonging to a well-identified political party: the UDPS and its allies. This alarming observation calls into question the democratic advances obtained thanks to the efforts of the citizens’ movement for the establishment of the rule of law. LUCHA strongly condemns the backsliding of democracy and warns against the establishment of totalitarian rule in the province.
Faced with this worrying situation, LUCHA calls on John Kabeya to strictly respect democratic standards. She also asks the Minister of the Interior to transfer the commander of the Congolese national police, Colonel John Mbela, for his incapacity and his complicity in these reprehensible acts.
LUCHA announces that if these recommendations are not taken into account, it will put in place important actions to make its voice heard. This mobilization testifies to the infallible commitment of the citizens’ movement to defend democratic rights and to fight against all forms of oppression.
It is important to recall that on December 10, 2022, activists from LUCHA and Civil Society of Congo were violently attacked by a group of unidentified people while peacefully demonstrating to demand the start of work on the Kananga road. -Kalambambuji.
These acts of violence and political repression underline the fragility of the democratic space in the province of Kasaï-Central. It is essential that the international community remain attentive and support the efforts of LUCHA in its fight to preserve democracy and fundamental rights in the region.
In conclusion, the current situation in Kasaï-Central province highlights the urgency of protecting and promoting democratic values