Human Rights Watch has strongly condemned what it describes as excessive force used by Congolese security forces against demonstrators in Kinshasa on June 12, 2026. These protests erupted in response to a proposed bill that could potentially extend President Félix Tshisekedi’s term in office.

Reports indicate that police personnel dispersed the peaceful gatherings with tear gas and batons. Furthermore, the organization noted a failure by authorities to intervene when members of the Force du Progrès, a group reportedly affiliated with the ruling UDPS party, launched attacks. Verified video footage captured violent confrontations, the vandalism of opposition party offices, and specific assaults on the headquarters of ECiDé, where several protesters had sought refuge.

Human Rights Watch has meticulously documented injuries sustained by over a dozen individuals, including prominent opposition figures, and confirmed the arrest of scores of demonstrators. The organization also revealed that certain members of the Force du Progrès admitted to being mobilized by UDPS officials to disrupt the protest, an allegation vehemently denied by the ruling party.

Congolese authorities have initiated an investigation into the reported violence, while the UDPS maintains that those responsible for the attacks were imposters posing as Force du Progrès members. Human Rights Watch is now urging for a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation to ensure that all those accountable for the actions are brought to justice.