DRC: C64 coalition alleges selective enforcement of protest bans

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the C64 coalition, which opposes constitutional amendments, has accused authorities of selective enforcement regarding the right to protest.

On September 15, 2026, a C64 march in Kinshasa was interrupted by clashes with police using tear gas. The coalition reported that its member, Manassé Lomboto Bomengola, died following injuries sustained during the violence, though official confirmation is pending. In Haut-Katanga, police prohibited planned marches in Lubumbashi, Likasi, and Kasumbalesa, citing public order risks.

By contrast, a march on September 22 organized by the UDPS and its allies to support state institutions and constitutional reform proceeded in Kinshasa without major incident. The C64 coordination in Haut-Katanga denounced this discrepancy, arguing that mayors and security forces permitted pro-government demonstrations while blocking opposition movements, a move they claim violates constitutional principles of equality before the law.