Senator Dany Kabongo Files Petition Against Senate Vice-President Modeste Bahati

Kinshasa, March 16, 2026 - Senator Dany Kabongo has officially filed a petition against Modeste Bahati Lukwebo, the Second Vice-President of the Senate, citing alleged incompetence in the exercise of his duties. The initiative reportedly garnered 83 signatures from fellow parliamentarians. Kabongo, a member of the Sacred Union of the Nation (USN), accuses Bahati, leader of the Alliance of Democratic Forces of Congo and Allies (AFDC-A), of failing to properly consult the Head of State, President Félix Tshisekedi, before making public statements on sensitive political issues, including constitutional discussions. Bahati had previously appeared in the media, suggesting the opening of a debate on constitutional matters. This statement was perceived by some colleagues as a lack of respect toward the President. In response, Bahati issued an apology on March 10, asserting that his words had been misinterpreted and clarifying that he was not opposed to constitutional revision, but rather advocating for an internal debate within the USN. The petition underscores rising tensions within the Senate and the ruling coalition, drawing attention to the scrutiny senior officials face over their public remarks.