DRC: Exiled politician to return to Lubumbashi May 20

Event

Exiled opposition politician Moïse Katumbi announced that he plans to return to the DRC and arrive in Lubumbashi (Haut-Katanga province) on Monday, May 20. Katumbi is scheduled to arrive at Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM) before driving into the city to deliver a speech to supporters at Place de la Poste. A heightened security presence is likely at FBM, main roads, and near Place de la Poste, along with large crowds and associated disruptions. Clashes between Katumbi supporters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Moïse Katumbi is an opposition politician, former governor of Katanga province, and former presidential candidate. In 2016, Katumbi left DRC and was sentenced in absentia to three years in prison on property fraud charges. He attempted to return to the DRC in 2018 to stand for presidential elections but was denied entry and his candidacy was rejected due to the criminal charges, which were annulled earlier in May after the presidential elections.

Advice

Individuals in Lubumbashi are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public gatherings due to the risk of violence and arrest, and anticipate a heightened security presence, transportation disruptions, and increased security at FBM.