Government enforces restrictions amid rising Ebola fatalities
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government has enforced a ban on mass gatherings in Kinshasa and three other provinces to mitigate the risk of Ebola transmission. This announcement, outlined in an official letter from Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani, comes as opposition groups prepare for a major protest on July 8 in the capital.
Since the declaration of the 17th Ebola outbreak on May 15, the country has recorded 360 deaths out of 1,274 confirmed cases. While the northeastern provinces remain the hardest-hit regions, Kinshasa—a bustling metropolis of over 17 million people—has yet to report any local transmission.
In the directive dated June 27, the minister instructed local authorities to prohibit “mass gatherings” to “prevent further Ebola virus contamination.” The letter does not explicitly mention whether the upcoming opposition rally is directly targeted by the restriction.
Political tensions escalate amid constitutional reform debate
The decision arrives at a time of heightened political unrest surrounding a proposed law that could pave the way for a constitutional referendum. Critics argue the reform may allow President Félix Tshisekedi—who has held office since 2019—to seek a third term, despite constitutional limits on presidential mandates.
Passed by a parliament dominated by the ruling majority in mid-June, the bill now awaits potential ratification by the head of state.
On June 12, a prior opposition protest denouncing what they called a “constitutional coup” was forcibly dispersed in Kinshasa. Clashes erupted between demonstrators, pro-government supporters, and security forces, resulting in multiple injuries. The United Nations also reported the death of “at least one protester.”
Despite the new restrictions, opposition leaders have vowed to proceed with the July 8 demonstration, demanding President Tshisekedi’s resignation. On Monday, Jacquemain Shabani condemned the planned protest as an “act of high treason.”