Franklin Tshamala, Secretary General of the Leadership, Governance, and Development (LGD) party, has expressed concerns over the alleged discriminatory treatment of opposition marches in Kinshasa. On September 23, Tshamala stated that the authorities' actions during recent marches were biased towards the ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) and its allies. He acknowledged the right of both the majority and opposition to demonstrate but lamented the unequal treatment by law enforcement.
Tshamala's comments come after a September 22 march organized by the UDPS and its allies, which proceeded without major incidents. However, he drew a comparison with a September 15 march by the Coalition Article 64 (C64), an opposition group. The C64 march was marred by clashes between protesters and individuals allegedly affiliated with the ruling party. Tshamala argued that the authorities' response to the two marches highlighted a double standard.
According to Tshamala, the government's actions suggest that it is "inféodées" to the UDPS, implying a loss of impartiality. He urged the authorities to ensure equal treatment and security for all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. The LGD Secretary General emphasized that the Constitution demands equal treatment for all Congolese citizens.
The recent marches took place amid heightened tensions in the DRC, with the opposition and majority engaging in rival demonstrations. The opposition has expressed concerns over proposed constitutional changes and a potential referendum. In contrast, the majority has rallied behind President Félix Tshisekedi and the current institutions.
Jean-Claude Katende, a civil society activist, has also weighed in on the issue, attributing the disruptions during the opposition's march to "incivics close to the power." His comments echo Tshamala's concerns about the impartiality of the authorities. The DRC has experienced recurring tensions between the opposition and majority, with allegations of bias and unequal treatment by the authorities.
The UDPS and its allies organized a large turnout for their September 22 march, with demonstrators converging on the Palais du Peuple. Despite initial concerns, the march proceeded peacefully. However, the opposition remains wary of the authorities' intentions and their perceived bias towards the ruling party.
Tshamala's allegations and Katende's comments highlight ongoing concerns about the DRC's democratic processes and the impartiality of its institutions. The international community has been monitoring the situation closely, with the UN and other organizations urging calm and restraint. The DRC's authorities must address these concerns to ensure a level playing field for all citizens and parties.
Key points
- The DRC authorities are accused of discriminatory treatment during recent Kinshasa marches.
- The opposition and majority have engaged in rival demonstrations amid heightened tensions.
- Concerns have been raised about the impartiality of the DRC's institutions and authorities.
