DR Congo opposition leader barred from leaving the country

An opposition leader in the Democratic Republic of Congo announced on Monday that he had been barred from leaving the country and had his passport confiscated, calling the action “intimidation” amid growing tensions with the government.

Delly Sesanga, head of the Envol party and former minister and lawmaker, is a prominent member of a newly formed coalition that opposes constitutional amendments that could enable President Felix Tshisekedi to extend his tenure.

Earlier this month, parliament adopted a bill outlining the organization of a referendum on constitutional reform, more than two years before the next presidential election.

Such a referendum could open the possibility of a third term for Tshisekedi, 63, whose current five‑year mandate—under the existing strict rules—runs out in December 2028.

On June 12, an opposition rally in Kinshasa aimed at condemning an alleged “constitutional coup” was suppressed.

During clashes with pro‑government activists and police, several opposition figures, including Sesanga, sustained injuries.

The office of the United Nations human rights chief condemned the death of at least one demonstrator.

A further rally is scheduled for July 8.

Sesanga belongs to the C64 (Coalition Article 64), established in May to oppose the presidential move.

He told AFP that on Sunday he went to the airport, where border officials seized his passport and informed him that he was not permitted to leave the country.

He was told he would need to address the matter through the judicial system but received no further explanation, he added.

A source close to the situation confirmed his account.

“It’s intimidation and a form of arbitrariness,” Sesanga told AFP. “I haven’t received any information about any proceedings that may have been brought against me.”

The Congolese news agency quoted a judicial source saying that an investigation into Sesanga was underway.

Sesanga, who reported leg injuries from the demonstration, said he had been traveling to Europe on Sunday for medical reasons.

AFP