DRC: Police and opposition supporters clash in Kinshasa August 7 /update 3

Event

Police and supporters of opposition leader Felix Tshisekedi reportedly clashed in the capital Kinshasa on Tuesday, August 7, as Tshisekedi filed his candidacy for president. According to local sources, police fired tear gas at Tshisekedi supporters who were reportedly throwing stones at police. There were no immediate reports of casualties as a result of the confrontation, which lasted approximately ten minutes. Further demonstrations and election-related violence are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Tshisekedi is the head of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) party, and is a leading candidate in December's presidential election.

Presidential elections are scheduled to be held on December 23. The DRC remains gripped by a political crisis stemming from President Joseph Kabila's refusal to step down after his term expired in December 2016. It is unclear if Kabila plans to run for a third term despite constitutional limitations. Candidates have until August 8 to submit documents declaring their intention to run.

Advice

Individuals in the DRC, particularly in Kinshasa, are advised to monitor the situation, maintain a high degree of situational awareness, and avoid all rallies and demonstrations due to the risk of violence.