DRC: the Government takes legal action against defamatory campaigns targeting the Prime Minister

Kinshasa, April 26^th, 2026 (CPA).- The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has referred the matter to the judicial authorities and relevant agencies to identify the perpetrators of defamatory campaigns on social media against Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, according to a statement consulted on Saturday by CPA. “The government strongly condemns the resurgence, on social media and other digital platforms, of posts and content containing insults, defamation, threats, abuse and other attacks targeting Her Excellency Ms Judith Suminwa Tuluka, Prime Minister, as well as other public officials. (…) In consequence, the Government specifies that the judicial authorities and relevant agencies have been notified to establish the facts, identify the perpetrators, co-perpetrators, accomplices, instigators and any intermediaries, including those acting anonymously, from abroad or using concealed digital devices, and to initiate, where appropriate, the legal proceedings stipulated by the law”, it is read. According to the source, the Government notes that some of these actions proceed from coordinated campaigns of denigration, manipulation of public opinion, organised relays and concerted actions likely to undermine the credibility of the Republic’s institutions, national cohesion and the authority of the State. The executive power has reminded, in the document that the Constitution of DRC guarantees fundamental freedoms, notably freedom of expression and freedom of opinion, whilst reiterating the limits provided for by the law. “These freedoms constitute essential achievements of the rule of law and the democratic functioning of institutions. However, the exercise of these freedoms must take place in strict compliance with the Constitution, the laws of the Republic, public order and the rights of others,” the statement has added. In this regard, the text has specified that the public insults, the defamation, the threats, the online harassment, the incitement to hatred, the attacks on honour, as well as any attempt at destabilisation or interference contrary to national interests, cannot be considered as falling within the scope of freedom of expression, since they constitute offences punishable under the legislation in force. “The Government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the republican principles of freedom, responsibility and mutual respect. It calls on all citizens to preserve the dignity of public debate, the cohesion of the nation and the responsible use of digital spaces, in the best interests of the nation,” the source has concluded.