Stories from Kinshasa · DR Congo

Jack Machabani has been elected in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The announcement was made via radio broadcast. No specific details regarding the election results or margin were provided.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is projected to become the world's most populous Francophone country this year. The nation is expected to surpass France with 66 million French speakers.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has announced the creation of a paramilitary force to secure its mining sector. The initiative is reportedly backed by funding from the United States and other partners.

The Congolese Defense Minister informed the Senate that certain auxiliary fighters, known as volunteers, have acted against loyalist forces. He attributed the seizure of the city of Wallikale last year to the betrayal of a group of these combatants. Of the $2.9 billion defense budget voted for 2025, only $2 billion has been effectively liquidated.

Two confidential parliamentary reports have been produced following hearings with government members regarding the military situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The reports analyze the difficulties faced by armed forces in confronting the M23 rebellion.

The 'Debt for Climate' campaign is calling for the annulment of illegitimate and illegal debts held by countries in the Global South. The campaign specifically highlights the debt situation in Congo and other African nations.

Jacques M. Chabani, the Vice-Premier Minister in charge of the Interior in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, remains in office. An opposition deputy filed a motion of no confidence against him at the National Assembly on Wednesday.

Approximately 1,000 people have died due to landslides in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since January. Multiple landslides occur weekly, ranging from small to large scale events.

A study indicates that foreign corporations control over 80% of critical minerals mined in the Congo. Local populations receive limited benefits from these resources. The report notes that the population in the Congo continues to live on approximately two dollars per day. Despite the country's mineral wealth, the local population remains economically disadvantaged. The study notes that the Congolese population lives on approximately 2,000 euros.

A motion of no confidence has been filed against Jacques Machiaveni, a figure within the inner circle of power in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The text was reportedly submitted by his own majority. The Assembly is scheduled to examine the motion today.