Fatshimetrie, October 21, 2024 – A group of municipal councilors from Kinshasa mobilized during a sit-in in front of the City Hall of the Congolese capital to demand the payment of their salaries and operating expenses, the situation having become unsustainable after ten months without remuneration.
The precarious situation of the municipal councilors was highlighted by the coordinator of the collective, Felly Bongongo, who denounced the non-payment of installation and operating costs, sometimes forcing them to resort to contributions to carry out their activities. They are also demanding concrete action from the governor of the city to guarantee the payment of the promised emoluments.
Paty Kumambu, president of the caucus, highlighted the gap between the official statements announcing the sending of funds to the provincial authorities and the reality experienced by the municipal councilors of Kinshasa. He emphasizes the need for direct dialogue with the governor to resolve this situation and restore their violated rights.
While some provinces have already resolved the issue of councilors’ salaries and operating expenses, Kinshasa’s representatives feel abandoned and disadvantaged, demanding recognition of their obligations and immediate action to correct these injustices.
This protest movement highlights not only the financial difficulties faced by many municipal councilors, but also the need for better resource management and transparent communication between political bodies and local elected officials. It highlights the challenges that the authorities must face to ensure fair and equitable governance at all levels of public administration.
Ultimately, this mobilization of Kinshasa municipal councilors highlights a disturbing reality that reveals the difficulties encountered by those who work daily for the well-being of their fellow citizens. It is essential that their legitimate demands be heard and taken into account to guarantee the democratic and equitable functioning of political life in the Democratic Republic of Congo.