Congo bans gatherings in areas far from Ebola outbreak. Some say it limits dissent

Congo’s interior ministry has banned public gatherings and demonstrations in Kinshasa and three provinces far from the country’s Ebola outbreak, drawing accusations from opposition and civil society groups that the move is meant to blunt dissent.

The restriction, announced Saturday, covers the capital and the northern provinces of Tshopo, Haut-Uele and Bas-Uele. None of those provinces has confirmed Ebola cases, according to AP’s reporting.

Health emergency and political tension

The ban comes as Congo’s Ebola outbreak continues to grow in eastern provinces. AP cited 1,307 infections and 377 deaths across three eastern provinces.

President Félix Tshisekedi used a televised address on Monday to urge people to respect health guidance, report suspected cases and reject misinformation. He also announced a $319 million Ebola response plan. He did not directly address the gathering ban in that speech.

Opposition figures, including Lamuka spokesperson Prince Epenge, said the restrictions were aimed at stopping a planned protest in Kinshasa early next month against proposed constitutional changes that could allow Tshisekedi to seek a third term.

Civil society groups also condemned the order on Monday, saying it threatens freedom of speech and freedom of assembly.

Wider fallout

The government says the restrictions are a precaution meant to stop Ebola from spreading into new areas. Le Monde reported that response efforts in the east are already facing mistrust, attacks on health workers and logistical problems.

Goma’s mayor separately banned public gatherings and demonstrations in that city, including celebrations tied to sports events, in the M23 rebel-controlled area.

What remains unclear is how long the ban will last, how uniformly it will be enforced and whether opposition groups will proceed with the planned protest or seek legal relief.