Democratic Republic of Congo
Human Rights Watch has strongly condemned the Congolese security forces for their disproportionate use of force against demonstrators in Kinshasa on June 12, 2026. These citizens were protesting a proposed legislative measure that could potentially extend President Félix Tshisekedi’s term in office.
Our investigations reveal that police officers scattered the protestors using tear gas and batons. Furthermore, security personnel reportedly failed to intervene as members of the Force du Progrès, a group associated with the ruling UDPS party, launched attacks. Verified video footage corroborates accounts of direct clashes, significant damage to opposition party headquarters, and assaults on the ECiDé office, where many demonstrators had sought refuge.
We have documented injuries sustained by over a dozen individuals, including several prominent opposition figures, and confirmed the arrest of scores of demonstrators. The organization further reports that some individuals identifying as Force du Progrès members admitted to being mobilized by UDPS officials with the explicit aim of disrupting the protest. The UDPS party, however, has denied these allegations.
Congolese authorities have initiated an inquiry into the violent incidents. In response, the UDPS maintains that the perpetrators of the attacks were merely impersonating members of the Force du Progrès. Human Rights Watch insists on the necessity of an independent and impartial investigation to ensure that all those responsible are held accountable and brought to justice.
