DRC provincial assemblies demand urgent solutions to financial crisis

Provincial assembly presidents in the Democratic Republic of Congo have formally presented their urgent concerns to the Senate, seeking immediate solutions to severe treasury problems affecting their institutions. The delegation met with Senate President Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde on Tuesday, June 23, highlighting a crisis that jeopardizes the functioning of provincial governance.

The primary issue raised was the persistent crisis of liquidity, leading to significant arrears in salaries and emoluments for provincial deputies. This financial instability, the representatives argued, critically weakens the provincial assemblies. They urged the Senate to actively intervene to help resolve these pressing financial matters.

Beyond financial woes, the provincial leaders also voiced strong opposition to what they described as "interference incompatible with administrative and management autonomy" by the Ministry of the Interior. They stressed that such actions undermine the constitutional rights granted to the provinces.

The delegation also engaged in discussions regarding a potential constitutional reform, emphasizing the significant institutional power held by the 780 provincial deputies and their right to be involved in any future amendments to the country's fundamental law. Finally, they reaffirmed their support for peace efforts in the eastern part of the country, linking national stability to the proper consideration of provincial realities and concerns.