DRC: Violence erupts at nationwide anti-Kabila protests Jan. 21 /update 1

Event

At least three people were killed and 28 injured when violence erupted at nationwide anti-Kabila marches organized by Catholic activists on Sunday, January 21. Violence reportedly broke out in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Kinshasa when security forces used tear gas and fired shots to disperse a crowd that had gathered. Associated marches were also reported in the cities of Kisangani, Bukavu, and Goma. At least 11 people were injured in Kisangani, and protesters were dispersed with tear gas in Goma.

A number of roadblocks have been set up Kinshasa, where security forces are allegedly conducting ID checks. Additionally, the government reportedly cut off internet access in Kinshasa in the evening of Saturday, January 20, in anticipation of the protests; it is unclear when full internet service will be restored.

Context

The DRC is experiencing a political crisis that stems from President Kabila's refusal to step down after his term expired in December 2016. Anti-Kabila demonstrations planned by Catholic activists and other opposition and civil society organizations took place on December 31; clashes with security services led to the deaths of at least seven protesters. December 31 marked the one-year anniversary of the 2016 political agreement under which elections were supposed to take place in 2017. Under a deal struck between the government and the opposition, long-awaited presidential, legislative, regional, and local elections were supposed to take place before the end of 2017.
However, on November 5, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) announced that elections would be set to take place one year after this deadline, on December 23, 2018. The opposition coalition denounced the timeframe, insisting that Kabila leave office by the end of 2017 and demanded that a transitional administration be put in place immediately and presidential elections be held in January 2018.

Advice

Individuals present in the DRC, particularly in Kinshasa, are advised to strictly avoid all protests and public gatherings due to the risk of violence and arrest, closely monitor the situation, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.