Lubumbashi experienced new unrest on Saturday, May 27, during a demonstration by the Congolese opposition. Police forces prevented the opposition parties Ensemble pour la République of Moïse Katumbi, Leadership and Governance for Development (LGD) of Augustin Matata Ponyo, Commitment for Citizenship and Development (ECIDE) of Martin Fayulu and Envol for the Republic of Delly Sesanga to gain access to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI). These political parties accuse the CENI of being politicized and of not working transparently, calling for an international audit of the electoral register.
The walkways leading to the CENI headquarters were blocked by police forces, so opposition representatives had to read their memorandum nearby. The mayor of the city Martin Kazembe had previously banned the march, citing an unfavorable security context. Opponents criticize the CENI for being biased and lacking in transparency by denouncing its lack of reaction to their demands.
The situation of the Congolese opposition in the pre-election period is tense and worries international observers. Faced with police forces firmly opposed to any critical demonstration, opposition political parties struggle to make themselves heard and mobilize their supporters