Rdc: a peaceful protest marks a democratic milestone

The political history of the Democratic Republic of Congo has too often followed predictable and tragic scripts: tear gas, gunfire, and looting whenever protests were called in Kinshasa. But the June 3, 2026 ‘Ville morte’ operation broke that cycle. Beyond partisan divisions and sterile scorekeeping, one clear fact stands out: non-violence prevailed, marking a spectacular step forward for our young democracy.

Zero deaths, zero injuries, no vandalism. This absence of bloodshed is no coincidence—it reflects two major evolutions.

On one hand, it shows restraint and responsibility from the government. The institutions managed the most complex challenge of a rule-of-law state: maintaining public order without crushing fundamental freedoms. On the other hand, it reveals a Congolese people who no longer accept being the sacrificial fuel for political ambitions. They balanced expressing discontent with the urgent need for daily economic survival.

The real highlight of the day was the striking coexistence of freedoms. Opposition figures Martin Fayulu and Moïse Katumbi—at least the only ones I heard on the airwaves—freely called for a citizen boycott without censorship. Meanwhile, the state, through a clear statement from Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Public Service Jean-Pierre Lihau, reiterated the duty of public service continuity. What did we see on the ground? A democracy alive and plural.

While some chose to stay home quietly, others went about their business freely. The ultimate symbol of this new tolerance: the normal operation of the Faden House hotel, an establishment linked to a leading opposition figure, proving that Kinshasa has moved beyond petty reprisals or political targeting. Those who wanted to express themselves through absence did so; those who wanted to boycott the ‘Ville morte’ by working did so too. Shop windows remained intact, and everyone’s rights were respected.

I conclude that in democracy, victory is not measured only by the number of closed iron curtains or burning tires. It is also measured by a system’s ability to allow disagreement without descending into chaos. By simultaneously guaranteeing security for all, the freedom to protest, and the right to work, the DRC has proven it is no longer a playground for amateur sorcerers but a nation rising through debate and mutual respect.

Words fly away, but these facts remain. This time, without triumphalism but with legitimate pride, let us say it loudly: long live democracy!