The governor of Kinshasa, Gentiny Ngobila, recently invited several Congolese political opponents to a meeting at Kinshasa City Hall. Among the invited personalities are Martin Fayulu, Dénis Mukwege, Théodore Ngoy, Jean-Claude Baende and Nkema Liloo. This meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, December 27, aimed to organize a public demonstration which will take place the next day, Wednesday, December 27.
This march, whose route is planned as far as Boulevard du Trente Juin, near the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), aims to protest against what opponents consider to be “the birth of a new political crisis”. According to them, this crisis arises from the contestation of the legitimacy of the leaders of the institutions of the Republic who will be proclaimed elected by the CENI following the controversial elections of December 20, 2023.
For his part, the Congolese Minister of the Interior, Peter Kazadi, assured that he had taken all necessary measures to maintain public order during this demonstration. He wanted to reassure the population by declaring that visible and invisible measures have been taken to enforce the law and avoid any unrest in the country. He also described this initiative by opponents as a desperate act aimed at making the country ungovernable.
It is important to note that political tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been very high since these disputed elections. The different political actors clash over the question of the legitimacy of electoral results and the composition of state institutions. In this context, demonstrations and calls for mobilization are increasing, each camp seeking to assert its demands.
It remains to be seen how this event planned for tomorrow will unfold. The question of security and public order is essential to avoid any overflow. The Congolese authorities must ensure the protection of demonstrators while ensuring stability in the country.
In conclusion, this meeting between Governor Gentiny Ngobila and Congolese opponents demonstrates the seriousness of the current political crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tensions are high and the demonstrations are a way for different parties to make their voices heard. It is essential that these gatherings take place peacefully and that the authorities guarantee the safety of all participants.