30 May 2023 | 02:23 PM UTC
DRC: Opposition coalition plans protest in Kinshasa June 1
Opposition coalition plans protest outside election headquarters in Kinshasa, DRC, June 1. Increased security, disruptions likely.
Event
The political opposition party coalition, including the Commitment for Citizenship and Development (ECIDE), Together for the Republic, Leadership and Governance for Development (LGD), and the All Volunteers for the Recovery of the DRC (ENVOL), plans to protest in Kinshasa on June 1. Supporters will gather outside of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) headquarters on Boulevard du 30 Juin near Central Station Square. Opposition leaders are calling for credible and transparent elections, as well as denouncing attempts by the government to prevent protests.
Heightened security and localized disruptions are likely near the CENI headquarters. Security forces erected barricades around the CENI headquarters before a previous protest on May 25 and have used tear gas and physical force to disperse protesters. Clashes between demonstrators, counter-demonstrators, and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Advice
As a precaution, avoid any demonstrations that materialize. Plan for traffic disruptions and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor local media for updated information. Heed all official security and traffic advisories.
