DRC: Protest planned in Beni March 28

Event

Supporters of the LUCHA civil society group are planning to stage a protest in the town of Beni to appeal the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to prevent electoral fraud during the 31 March presidential and legislative elections scheduled to take place in Beni and Butembo (North Kivu province; east) as well as in Yumbi (Mai-Ndombe province; southwest). Protesters are expected to march from Tribune 8 towards the local CENI building, starting at 10:00 (local time). Heightened security presence is likely around any demonstration. Clashes between supporters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

The CENI announced on December 26, that general elections (including the presidential vote), which were held nationwide on December 30, would be delayed until March 31 in the three abovementioned cities notably due to security and health concerns (resurgence of Ebola).

Advice

Individuals in the DRC are advised to monitor the political situation, avoid all protests and political demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and refrain from discussing sensitive political topics in public.