DRC: Violent protests in Lubumbashi and Kinshasa June 10-11; further likely

Event

Supporters of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) - part of President Felix Tshisekedi's Cap pour Le Changement (CACH) coalition - violently protested in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi (Haut-Katanga province) on Monday, June 10, and Tuesday, June 11, to denounce the UPDS-Common Front for Congo (FCC) ruling coalition, claiming that the FCC interferes with the president's right to rule. Further related protests are likely in the coming hours and days. A heightened security presence is to be expected near any demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

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 discontents 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.