Kinshasa driver strike fails to materialize amid association divisions

A planned strike by public transport drivers in Kinshasa for Monday, October 19, failed to materialize as expected due to divisions among transport associations and interventions by authorities.

Professional driver oversight bodies rejected the strike initiative, stating it was launched by unauthorized groups. These organizations emphasized ongoing government efforts to improve mobility, including the construction of 200 km of roads, improved street lighting, and the deployment of the Road Regulation Support Brigade. They also noted upcoming improvements such as unified transport taxes and the delivery of new parking facilities.

Erick Manianga, president of the Mopila Asbl association, reported that several organizations that initially supported the strike withdrew after being contacted by urban authorities. Manianga denounced this shift as a result of corruption and alleged intimidation. While some groups backed down, Mopila Asbl maintains its commitment to defending driver rights, citing grievances such as parking taxes, lack of parking spaces, and chronic traffic congestion in the capital.