DRC: Opposition calls for nationwide protests Nov. 15 and 28

Event

Opposition parties have called for protests to take place nationwide on Wednesday, November 15, and Tuesday, November 28, to denounce the recently announced election calendar. In addition, opposition parties and civil society groups have called for acts of civil disobedience, urging their supporters to refrain from paying taxes and utility bills.

Expect increased security measures as well as business and transportation disruptions during the demonstrations. Violence is possible between protesters and security forces.

Context

The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) announced on Sunday, November 5, that long-awaited presidential, legislative, regional, and local elections will take place on December 23, 2018. The opposition coalition has denounced the timeframe, insisting that current President Joseph Kabila leave office by the end of 2017 and demanding a transitional administration be put in place immediately and presidential elections held in January 2018.

The current political crisis stems from Kabila's refusal to step down after his term expired in December 2016. Under a deal struck between the government and the opposition, elections were supposed to take place before the end of 2017.

Advice

Individuals present in the DRC are advised to monitor the situation, maintain a high degree of situational awareness, and avoid all rallies and demonstrations due to the risk of violence.