DRC National Assembly sparks debate over deputy accountability

The Bureau of the National Assembly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has requested that members of parliament document and provide costs for social and infrastructural achievements in their constituencies, such as schools, bridges, and health centers. This request, issued via official communiqué, requires deputies to submit photos, videos, and financial details by October 15.

The directive has sparked debate regarding the constitutional roles of legislators. Opposition deputy Gratien Iracan expressed support for accountability but argued that evaluating lawmakers based on infrastructure projects risks confusing legislative duties with executive functions. He noted that under Articles 100 and 101 of the Constitution, the primary roles of a deputy are to represent the nation, vote on laws, and oversee the government, whereas infrastructure development is the responsibility of the Executive.

In response to the controversy, Professor Jacques Djoli, Rapporteur of the Bureau, explained that the initiative aims to recognize and value the community, social, and humanitarian actions performed by deputies through personal sacrifice rather than public funding. Djoli noted that Congolese deputies often face immense social pressure to fund local needs like tuition, hospital fees, and small-scale construction, acting as social actors beyond their formal constitutional mandates.