America News Agency

Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxime Prevot expressed his concern over the loss of life and attacks on property, stressing the need to protect democratic values.

Drawing attention to the tensions in Kinshasa and the emerging situation, Prevot stated, "The events that took place yesterday in Kinshasa are extremely concerning. The escalation of violence, the excessive use of force reportedly resulting in loss of life, and the looting of party headquarters are behaviors that have no place in a democracy."

Emphasizing that democratic rights must be exercised within a legal framework, Prevot said, "The freedom to express opposition peacefully is a fundamental principle under the laws of the Republic."

Minister Prevot concluded by stating that they would closely follow the legal process regarding the incidents: "We welcome the announced investigation and hope that the authorities will objectively shed light on the course of events and on the responsibilities of those involved, regardless of the source of the violence."