Tensions flared at the People’s Palace in Kinshasa on Monday afternoon as administrative staff of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s National Assembly staged a protest demanding salary increases.
According to eyewitnesses, the workers gathered within the parliamentary compound around midday, chanting slogans and calling on lawmakers to address what they described as “unfair and stagnant” pay despite the country’s rising cost of living.
Security officers were deployed to maintain order as the protest briefly disrupted administrative operations at the seat of parliament.
No clashes were reported, but the atmosphere remained tense as staff insisted they would not return to work until their demands were heard.
The protesters accuse parliamentary management of ignoring previous requests for better working conditions and salary adjustments. “We serve the nation just like the deputies, yet our pay remains meagre,” one employee reportedly said.
Officials from the National Assembly had not yet issued an official response by Monday evening. However, sources close to the administration indicated that discussions may be initiated to defuse the situation and avoid further disruption.
The protest highlights growing frustration among public sector workers across the DRC, many of whom continue to push for wage revisions amid persistent inflation and economic hardship.
