Congo opposition leader and former president call for political reforms

Augustin Kabuya Tshilumba, secretary‑general and interim president of the UDPS/Tshisekedi party, announced a press conference for Sunday 14 June 2026 at the party headquarters in Limete. He said the meeting would address what he described as a campaign of disinformation surrounding a sit‑in on Boulevard Triomphal on 12 June, which he claims turned violent after being portrayed as peaceful. Kabuya aims to present his version of events and counter accusations that the opposition is tarnishing the government’s image.

Former president Joseph Kabila made a rare public statement on Thursday 11 June, urging a complete overhaul of the Congolese political class. He called for the “sweeping away” of the current system, proposing new mechanisms such as primary elections and greater citizen participation to foster a new generation of leaders. Kabila warned that meaningful change would require time and broad civic engagement, emphasizing structural reforms rather than short‑term fixes.