The Congolese political scene has been marked in recent days by many events that have animated the news. It all started with the brutal repression of the opposition march on May 20 by the police, followed by another march that took place a week later, but which rather flopped. These demonstrations have sparked tension between politicians, and this has weakened the image of President Felix Tshisekedi and his “people first” vision.
However, no one would have imagined the events that were to follow. Moise Katumbi and Salomon Idi Kalonda Della, very well informed, had taken care to leave Kinshasa after the success of the first demonstration. But, as Moise Katumbi was about to board his private plane at N’djili International Airport, a pick-up appeared with armed men in uniform who took away Kalonda, Katumbi’s right arm. The scene was filmed and made the rounds of the media.
The communication network of opponents quickly mobilized to denounce the arbitrary and illegal arrest of Kalonda, demanding his immediate release and the protection of democracy. However, the day after the demonstrations of May 20, Kalonda was already warned of a probable plan to arrest him. But no one would have imagined that Tshisekedi would take action.
Faced with the events, the Katumbi communication network mobilized to ensure the circulation of life and denounce the arrest. This confirmed the relevance of Katumbi’s communication system, which is very well structured and made up of several renowned journalists, particularly international ones, and local press owners.
Beyond these events, other news has also animated the Congolese political scene in recent days. There was the extraordinary summit of the East African community, during which significant progress was made for the security of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The international criminal court has also opened an investigation into crimes against humanity in Lituri province, and transporters have suspended transport on routes leading to the former eastern province.
However, the food crisis continues to rage, justice and security are still lacking, while the restriction of civic space and electoral pressure persist. Citizen movements are mobilizing to raise awareness of the situation and call for the release of political prisoners and an end to the dictatorship.
Despite everything, significant progress has also been made in recent days, in particular the appointment of Julienne Lusenge as deputy coordinator of the national follow-up mechanism for the Addis Ababa framework agreement in the DRC, which represents progress for the representation of women in peacebuilding.
The Young Congolese Entrepreneurs Fair was also a success, providing a day of inspiration, exchange and funding for the country’s young entrepreneurs.
In short, the Congolese political scene is lively, with events that arouse tension, but also significant progress