The Congolese government has moved to prohibit large-scale gatherings in Kinshasa and three additional provinces as part of efforts to contain the current Ebola outbreak. This decisive step follows a directive from the Interior Minister, Jacquemain Shabani, instructing local authorities to enforce the restriction to “prevent any potential contamination from the Ebola virus”.

Ebola’s grip on eastern provinces — declared on May 15, the 17th Ebola outbreak has claimed 360 lives among 1,274 recorded cases, predominantly affecting the northeastern region. Despite Kinshasa’s vast population of over 17 million, the capital has yet to report any transmission cases.

A ban amid escalating political tensions

The timing of the government’s decision coincides with heightened political unrest surrounding a proposed constitutional amendment bill. Critics argue the reform could pave the way for President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term, despite constitutional term limits restricting presidents to two consecutive mandates.

The bill, passed by a Parliament dominated by the ruling coalition in mid-June, now awaits potential enactment by the President. Earlier this month, on June 12, a previous opposition rally opposing what they termed a “constitutional coup” was forcibly dispersed in Kinshasa. Clashes erupted between demonstrators, pro-government supporters, and security forces, resulting in multiple injuries and at least one fatality, as reported by United Nations observers.

Undeterred by the new restrictions, opposition leaders have reaffirmed their call for nationwide protests on July 8, demanding President Tshisekedi’s resignation. In response, Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani branded the planned demonstration an “act of high treason”.