UN Reports Detention of Over 40 Opposition Members

Kinshasa, April 7, 2026 - The United Nations has raised concerns over the detention of dozens of political opposition members in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to a report released on April 6 by its Joint Human Rights Office.

The report indicates that at least 42 individuals, including members of opposition parties, have been arrested since January 2026 by intelligence services and the military justice system. Many are affiliated with the Ensemble pour la République party of exiled opposition figure Moïse Katumbi and the PPRD of former President Joseph Kabila.

According to the findings, several detainees are being held at Ndolo military prison in Kinshasa, while others are reportedly detained in unofficial facilities allegedly operated by the National Cyber Defense Council (CNC), an institution that has faced criticism over alleged human rights abuses.

Among those arrested in January were senior members of the PPRD, including Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, Aubin Minaku, and Dunia Kilanga. They were apprehended at their residences in operations involving both uniformed and plainclothes personnel.

The report notes that many of the detainees have been held incommunicado, without access to legal counsel or judicial proceedings, raising concerns over due process and adherence to legal standards.

Human rights organizations have also expressed alarm over the situation. In March, reports highlighted cases of enforced disappearances involving opposition members, some allegedly linked to accusations of support for the AFC/M23 rebellion.

The findings have intensified calls from both national and international actors for greater transparency, respect for legal procedures, and the protection of political freedoms in the country.