23 Jun 2022 | 09:58 PM UTC
DRC: Various groups to stage march in Kinshasa June 25
Various groups to stage march in Kinshasa, DRC, June 25, denouncing alleged Rwandan support of rebels in country's east; disruptions likely.
Event
Various political parties and civil society organizations are planning to stage a march in Kinshasa June 25. The purpose of the action is to protest alleged Rwandan aid to rebels in eastern DRC and express support for the DRC's armed forces. Demonstrators intend to march from Place Pascale in Masina at 10:00 to Place de l'Echangeur in Limete. The event may draw thousands of participants.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely along the march route June 25. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces are possible; police may quickly resort to riot-control measures to disperse protesters if they are overly disruptive. Similar demonstrations are likely in urban centers across the country in the coming weeks.
Context
The planned march comes amid deteriorating diplomatic relations between Rwanda and the DRC. Congolese officials have recently accused Rwanda of supporting March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern DRC; Rwanda has denied the claims. The M23 rebel group reemerged in November 2021, attacking Congolese forces and villages in the east of the country nearly a decade after a peace agreement marked the end of its rebellion in 2013. The renewed activity of M23 militants and Congolese accusations of Rwanda aiding the group may aggravate tensions in the region.
Advice
Avoid the demonstration. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the march route. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
