DRC: Violent protest ongoing in Kinshasa June 12 /update 1

Event

On Wednesday, June 12, clashes between supporters of the Common Front for Congo (FCC) and supporters of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) party - part of President Felix Tshisekedi's Cap pour Le Changement (CACH) coalition - were reported on the Boulevard Sendwe (Kalumu district) of the capital Kinshasa. Police forces forcibly dispersed the protesters, and a heightened security presence, along with traffic disruptions, have been reported in the area.

Further related protests and clashes are likely in the coming days.

Context

Similar protests took place in Lumbashi and Kinshasa on June 10-11. UDPS supporters were denouncing the UPDS- FCC ruling coalition, claiming that the FCC interferes with the president's right to rule.

The December 30 legislative elections were won by the FFC, led by former President Joseph Kabila, thus enshrining a political cohabitation; however, since then, no government has been formed due to political disagreements between the two coalitions, prompting severe discontent among the population.

Advice

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