11 Jun 2019 | 04:57 AM UTC
DRC: Opposition leader plans countrywide tour June 10-20
Formerly exiled opposition leader Moïse Katumbi plans to visit cities throughout the country from June 10-20; associated rallies and heightened security measures expected
Event
Moïse Katumbi, a formerly exiled opposition leader, launched a nationwide tour of the DRC on Monday, June 10, and is planning to visit several cities through Thursday, June 20. Katumbi was originally scheduled to start the tour in the city of Goma but he announced on social media he had to postpone the visit because he was not granted authorization. However, Katumbi is still expected to visit the following locations:
- Bukavu – Wednesday, June 12
- Beni and Butembo – Thursday, June 13
- Bunia – Friday, June 14
- Kisangani – Sunday, June 16
- Kindu – Tuesday, June 18
- Mbandaka – Wednesday, June 19
- Kinshasa – Thursday, June 20
Heightened security measures and associated rallies are expected in the abovementioned cities during Katumbi’s visits. It is unclear if he will still attempt to enter cities that refuse to grant him authorization.
Context
Katumbi, the former governor of Katanga province, returned to Lubumbashi on May 20 after being in exile for three years. In 2016, Katumbi left DRC and was sentenced in absentia to three years in prison on property fraud charges. He attempted to run in the 2018 presidential election but was denied entry into the country and his candidacy was rejected due to the criminal charges, which were annulled in May 2019 after the vote.
Advice
Individuals in the abovementioned cities are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all public gatherings due to the risk of violence and arrest, and anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions.
