**Postponement of the march in support of the FARDC: Kongo-Central faces a new political reality**
January 30, 2025 was supposed to be a symbolic date for supporters of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and for support for the Head of State, with a march planned in Kongo-Central. However, this initiative was postponed to a later date, caused by instructions from the Deputy Prime Minister of the Interior, prohibiting any form of demonstration across the country. This turnaround, stated in a press release from Governor Grâce Nkuanga Masuangi Bilolo, raises essential questions about the socio-political climate in the DRC.
### A Reaction to the Tense Political Context
The postponement of this march is not part of an isolated uproar. It is the result of growing tensions and a charged political situation, especially after the tumultuous events that occurred in Kinshasa during a similar demonstration. The excesses that marred this action of support, with reported scuffles between law enforcement and demonstrators, underline the security challenges that the country is going through. These incidents, often amplified by local and international media, reinforce the idea that the DRC is at this critical crossroads where popular expression is met with repressive measures.
### An Assessment of Civil Liberties
This context reminds all observers that the DRC has a complex history in terms of civil liberties. The marches in support of established powers, which should avoid criticism, are often a double sword. While some FARDC Preferred Groups may see these mobilizations as a way to galvanize popular support, others may see them as efforts to silence growing dissent against a government that is seen as ineffective by large sections of society.
Comparing this with other protest movements in the region, such as the Sesotho movement in South Africa in 2024 or the prominence of peaceful protests in Zambia in 2021, there are marked differences in how governments respond to popular will. This contrast highlights the detours that Congolese authorities often take to maintain control and power, even in the face of dissenting public opinion.
### Strategies for the Future
This abrupt postponement could also be seen as an opportunity for constructive dialogue between the government and civil society actors. Several political analysts suggest that, rather than systematically opposing the protests, governments should consider opening channels for discussion, reconciling the divergent voices within Congolese society.. The example of the inter-Congolese dialogue in 2003, which helped end the civil war, demonstrates the positive potential of a more collaborative approach.
### Towards a Cultural and Economic Balance
Finally, the situation in Kongo-Central could also serve as an accelerator for long-term changes in socio-economic relations. The mobilization around the armed forces and the head of state could be transformed into a platform to promote sustainable development projects in this province, traditionally rich in natural resources but often impoverished by execrable management. By integrating socio-economic aspects into the public debate, Kongo-Central could potentially become a model of resilience and revitalization for other Congolese provinces.
In short, if this support march is postponed, it may not be an end in itself, but rather an opportunity for the DRC to reassess its priorities. The process must now move towards a form of constructive engagement between different social and political forces, and tackle the roots of the tensions that fracture Congolese society. How Kongo-Central and its leaders handle this situation will undoubtedly be an indicator of the path the DRC takes in the months to come.