A meeting was held at Kinshasa's City Hall on September 21, 2026, to determine the itinerary for a march by the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS/Tshisekedi) planned for the following day. The talks involved the provincial governor and representatives of the ruling party. According to a City Hall communiqué, the discussions aimed to finalize the route for the march, ensuring it proceeds smoothly and within the bounds of the law.
The meeting was led by Governor Daniel Bumba and included Jean Tezo, the UDPS/Tshisekedi's deputy secretary general. The march, set to take place across the country, particularly in Kinshasa, is intended to show support for political dialogue, a referendum law, and the country's institutions. The talks also involved representatives from the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH).
The planned march is part of a series of events by the UDPS/Tshisekedi, led by Étienne Tshisekedi. The party's activities have been closely watched, given its influence in Congolese politics. The City Hall statement expressed optimism that an agreement on the march's route would be reached soon.
The Kinshasa provincial government has been keen to ensure that public demonstrations are conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law. The talks with the UDPS/Tshisekedi are part of broader efforts to maintain public order and safety in the capital. The involvement of the CNDH underscores the importance of upholding human rights during such events.
The discussions at City Hall are seen as a positive step towards facilitating peaceful public expression. By engaging with the party and other stakeholders, the government aims to prevent potential conflicts and ensure that the march contributes to the country's democratic processes. The planned event is expected to draw significant attention, given the UDPS/Tshisekedi's popularity.
The Congolese government has been working to balance the right to public assembly with the need to maintain security. The talks on the UDPS/Tshisekedi march itinerary reflect these efforts. By working together, the authorities and the party can help ensure that the event proceeds without incident and contributes to the country's stability.
The outcome of the meeting will be crucial in determining the success of the planned march and its impact on the country's political landscape. With the involvement of key stakeholders, including the CNDH, there is hope that the event will promote dialogue and understanding. The government's approach to managing public demonstrations will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally.
Key points
- The planned march by the UDPS/Tshisekedi aims to show support for political dialogue, a referendum law, and the country's institutions.
