Opposition Leader Delly Sesanga Barred from Leaving the Democratic Republic of Congo
On Monday, Delly Sesanga, head of the Envol party and a prominent figure in the C64 (Coalition Article 64) alliance, reported that Congolese authorities confiscated his passport at Kinshasa’s N’djili International Airport and informed him he was prohibited from leaving the country. Sesanga described the move as “intimidation and a form of arbitrariness,” saying he received no explanation beyond a directive to contact the judiciary.
Context: Constitutional Reform and Electoral Tensions
More than two years ahead of the next presidential election—scheduled for December 2028—the Congolese parliament approved, earlier this month, a bill to organise a referendum on constitutional reform. Analysts note that the proposed changes could remove the current two‑term limit, potentially allowing President Félix Tshisekedi, now serving his second five‑year term, to seek a third mandate.
The reform drive has sparked widespread opposition. On June 12, a rally in Kinshasa denouncing an alleged “constitutional coup” was dispersed by security forces, resulting in injuries to several activists, including Sesanga, who said he sustained leg wounds during the clash. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned the death of at least one protester during that demonstration.
Travel Ban Cited as Medical Trip
Sesanga told AFP that he had intended to travel to Europe on Sunday for medical treatment related to the injuries incurred at the June rally. Upon arrival at the airport, border officials seized his passport and informed him he was barred from departure. A source familiar with the interior ministry’s procedures confirmed the confiscation, though no formal charges have been publicly disclosed.
“I have not received any information about any proceedings that may have been initiated against me,” Sesanga said, adding that the lack of transparency fuels perceptions of political retaliation. The Congolese News Agency later quoted a judicial source indicating that an investigation is underway against the opposition leader, though specifics were not provided.
International Response and Planned Mobilisation
The UN human rights chief’s office reiterated concerns over restrictions on freedom of movement and called on Congolese authorities to uphold international obligations regarding civil and political rights. Human rights watchdogs have warned that travel bans on opposition figures can chill dissent and undermine democratic processes, especially amid ongoing debates over constitutional amendments.
Despite the travel ban, Sesanga’s coalition has announced another demonstration for July 8 in Kinshasa, aiming to protest what they describe as an attempted “constitutional coup.” Organisers say the rally will proceed peacefully, urging security forces to respect the right to assemble.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Date of passport confiscation: Sunday, 21 September 2025 (reported Monday, 22 September 2025).
- Reason cited by Sesanga: Medical travel for leg injuries sustained during the June 12 protest.
- Parliamentary action: Bill approving a constitutional referendum passed earlier September 2025.
- Potential impact: Could enable President Félix Tshisekedi to run for a third term after his current term ends in December 2028.
- International reaction: UN Human Rights Office condemned protest‑related deaths and called for respect of freedom of movement.
As the DRC approaches a pivotal electoral cycle, the situation surrounding Delly Sesanga underscores the growing friction between the government and opposition forces over constitutional legitimacy and democratic freedoms. Continued monitoring by regional and international bodies will be essential to ensure that any legal actions adhere to due process and that citizens’ rights to travel, assemble, and express dissent are safeguarded.
