Human Rights Watch has sharply criticized the actions of Congolese security forces, alleging excessive use of force against demonstrators in Kinshasa on June 12, 2026. Protesters had gathered to oppose a proposed legislative amendment that could potentially extend President Félix Tshisekedi’s mandate.

Eyewitness accounts and verified video footage reveal security personnel deployed tear gas and batons to disperse the crowds. Disturbingly, police reportedly failed to intervene as members of the Force du Progrès, a group associated with the ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) party, carried out attacks. These incidents included confrontations, vandalism targeting opposition party offices, and assaults on the ECiDé headquarters, where many demonstrators had sought refuge.

Human Rights Watch has meticulously documented injuries sustained by over a dozen individuals, including several prominent opposition figures, and the arbitrary arrest of scores of protesters. The organization further alleges that some individuals identified as Force du Progrès members admitted to being mobilized by UDPS officials with the express purpose of disrupting the demonstration. The UDPS, however, has vehemently denied these accusations.

Congolese authorities have since initiated an inquiry into the reported violence. For its part, the UDPS maintains that the perpetrators of the attacks were imposters posing as Force du Progrès members. Human Rights Watch insists on the necessity of an independent and impartial investigation to ensure that all those responsible for the violence are held accountable and brought to justice.