Restrictions of the democratic space in the province of Kasaï-Central: a cry of alarm launched by LUCHA
The province of Kasaï-Central, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is currently experiencing a deterioration of its democratic space, according to a statement by the citizens’ movement Lutte pour leChange (LUCHA). In their communication, they denounce a series of acts of political intolerance, vandalism, physical attacks, torture, intimidation, arbitrary arrests and incitement to hatred, perpetrated by a group of militants of a clearly identified political party, in this case the UDPS and its allies.
This decline in democracy in the province is worrying, as it calls into question the efforts made by LUCHA and other actors to establish the rule of law. In their statement, LUCHA strongly condemns this situation and calls on Governor John Kabeya Shikeyi to strictly adhere to democratic standards. They also demand the transfer of the commander of the Congolese National Police (PNC), Colonel John Mbela, because of his incapacity and his possible complicity.
Faced with this worrying situation, LUCHA announces that it will take large-scale actions if these recommendations are not taken into account. It is therefore urgent that the provincial and national authorities take measures to guarantee the protection of the democratic rights of citizens and prevent all forms of political violence.
It should be recalled that this is not the first time that the province of Kasaï-Central has faced problems related to the democratic space. In December 2022, LUCHA and civil society activists in Congo were violently attacked by unidentified individuals while peacefully demonstrating to demand the start of work on the Kananga-Kalambambuji road.
All of these events underline the importance of preserving democratic freedoms and guaranteeing the security of citizens in the province of Kasaï-Central. LUCHA calls for awareness and immediate action to restore a true democratic space where the fundamental rights of all citizens are respected.
In a democracy, the free expression of the will of citizens and respect for human rights are essential pillars. It is therefore crucial that the competent authorities take concrete measures to ensure respect for these principles, and thus allow a more just and egalitarian society for all the inhabitants of Kasaï-Central.
In conclusion, it is imperative that the situation in the province of Kasai-Central be taken seriously, and that concrete actions be taken to guarantee and strengthen the democratic space. LUCHA has issued a cry of alarm, now is the time for the authorities to respond to this call and act in favor of democracy and the fundamental rights of citizens