Fatshimetrie, edition of September 19, 2024 – A crucial moment took place today in the Senate of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, during the plenary session this Friday, the Senate proceeded to the establishment of its provincial groups, political groups and standing committees, thus marking an important step in the functioning of the upper house of Parliament.
According to the official press release published by the Senate, this day was dedicated to the constitution of provincial groups, political groups and standing committees, and to the examination of the bill authorizing the extension of the state of siege. This last measure, decreed almost three years ago in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, was at the center of the debates in the lower house of Parliament.
The rules of procedure of the Senate provide that senators are divided into standing committees, key bodies of parliamentary work. Each standing committee has a specific area of competence, covering the different aspects of legislative activity. It is also emphasized that each senator, with the exception of the President of the Senate, is a member of a standing committee, and can only belong to one of these committees.
In a context marked by major political and security issues, the extension of the state of siege occupied a prominent place during the discussions in the National Assembly. The decision taken by a large majority of the deputies present at the plenary session, chaired by the 1st Vice-President of the National Assembly, Jean-Claude Tshilumbayi, demonstrates the will of the elected representatives to defend stability and security in the provinces concerned.
This important step taken by the Senate and the National Assembly underlines the commitment of Congolese parliamentarians to respond to the current challenges of the country, and to work together to promote the development and well-being of the population. These initiatives reflect a democracy on the move, where institutions play an essential role in consolidating the rule of law and promoting social progress.
In short, the day of September 19, 2024 will remain engraved in the parliamentary annals of the DRC, as the testimony of a collective will to advance the country on the path of progress, stability and peace.