Fatshimetrie, October 25, 2024 – The situation of municipal councilors in Kananga, in the heart of Kasai Central in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has reached a critical point with the sit-in organized by a group of councilors demanding their unpaid emoluments for 10 months. This peaceful demonstration stormed the administrative building, thus testifying to the growing frustration of local elected officials in the face of precarious financial conditions.
The spokesperson for the protesters, Mr. Benoit Belangenyi Tshikele, vehemently expressed the dismay of his colleagues, highlighting the total lack of means to fulfill their functions and the non-payment of their emoluments as well as operating costs relating to their mandates. He deplored the silence of the provincial executive regarding their legitimate demands, denouncing the absence of an adequate working framework.
The indefinite duration of the sit-in and the determination of the municipal councilors to defend their rights testify to the urgency of the situation and their desire to effectively serve their voters and communities. On banners displayed in front of the administrative building, the key demands of the councilors were clearly stated: the payment of arrears of emoluments, the improvement of socio-professional conditions and the acquisition of a decent working environment.
This mobilization demonstrates the need for the authorities to respond to the essential needs of the municipal councilors, who are responsible for the proper functioning of local authorities. In the absence of concrete measures to alleviate this financial crisis, the discontent risks spreading and compromising the smooth running of public affairs in Kananga.
It is imperative that the provincial and national authorities take immediate measures to resolve this situation and guarantee the legitimate rights of the municipal councilors, in order to avoid an escalation of tensions and preserve political and social stability in the region. Fatshimetrie will remain attentive to the evolution of this situation and will continue to inform its readers about future developments in this crisis.