DR Congo Suspends 12 Opposition Political Parties Amid Rising Tensions

The Ministry of Interior and Security of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) announced on October 31, 2025, the suspension of 12 political parties opposing the government, citing violations of laws governing party operations and national security.

The suspended parties include:

PPRD, founded by former President Joseph Kabila (2001–2019)

LGD, led by former Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo

UDA, headed by former MP Claudel Lubaya

PISTE, led by Seth Kikuni

Other affected parties include AAP (Théophile Mbemba), MCPR (Jean Claude Vuemba), ATD (Joseph Makila), MLP (Franck Diongo), UPC, COFEDEC, ADCP, and PNEC.

Minister Jacquemain Shabani Lukoo accused these parties of violating key legal principles, including the preservation of national unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and public security. He requested the Constitutional Court to formally dissolve them under the law regulating political parties, which allows for penalties when parties exceed their legal mandate.

While the government has not explicitly connected this suspension to broader political events, many of the affected parties are affiliated with the recently formed coalition “Sauvons la RDC”, led by Joseph Kabila and his supporters. This coalition has openly advocated for political reform, disarmament of all armed groups, inclusive dialogue, and better relations with neighboring countries.

The move comes shortly after Kabila was sentenced to death on September 30, 2025, following convictions for crimes including plotting against the state, in connection with the coalition’s alleged links to the AFC/M23 rebel alliance. The government has characterized “Sauvons la RDC” as supporting activities that threaten national security.

The suspension of these parties is expected to intensify political tensions in the DRC, raising concerns among human rights observers and regional partners about the state of political pluralism and democratic space in the country.