The City of Tshikapa, located in the province of Kasaï, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, defended its decision to ban the peaceful march planned by the citizens’ movement Lutte pour lechange (LUCHA) which wanted to demand a drop in the price of utility bills. Regideso, the water distribution company. In a letter of acknowledgment of receipt, the Deputy Mayor of the city of Tshikapa, Jean Pierre Ntumba, explained that political and social issues did not allow the holding of a peaceful demonstration, and invited the demonstrators to come to City Hall to discuss possible alternatives.
However, LUCHA maintained its march scheduled for June 9, despite the local government’s decision. It should be recalled that the REGIDESO connection price increased from 220 USD to 320 USD, which caused many concerns among the households of the population.
In this situation of political and social tensions, it is essential to find peaceful solutions to solve the problems of the population. Instead of banning peaceful demonstrations, local authorities could work with the organizers of these marches to find viable solutions to meet the needs of the population. This would ensure stability and peace in the city of Tshikapa and in the province of Kasaï