Kinshasa, the bustling heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo, awoke unusually subdued this Wednesday, June 3, following opposition calls for a ‘dead city’ protest to reject the government’s plan to amend the Constitution, potentially allowing President Félix Tshisekedi to extend his stay in power.

The capital, typically alive from as early as 3:00 AM, saw significantly reduced activity. Taxis were scarce, schools were nearly empty, and most shops remained closed. The usual crowds that clog the streets were nowhere to be seen.

In the Mont-Amba district, our reporter observed barely any traffic on the Intendance road near the University of Kinshasa—a route usually packed with students by 7:50 AM. Instead, police officers lined the streets, while bus stops stood empty. Gas stations like Salongo hesitated to open. Military vehicles patrolled the Bypass avenue, and the usually busy Ngaba roundabout remained nearly deserted until 8:00 AM.

Limete, a district known for its heavy traffic on Lumumba and Poids Lourds boulevards, was eerily quiet. Public transport was rare, with only one bus operating until 7:00 AM, according to a local resident. Many vehicle owners chose to keep their cars off the roads to avoid potential unrest. Police patrols were intensified, with officers stationed at key points, particularly in the first street of Limete.

Samyr Lukombo