The legal and political standoff surrounding Prince Epenge continues to intensify. On Monday, November 9, 2026, the Congolese judiciary rejected the petition for interim release filed by the defense team of the political figure, who serves as a key cadre and spokesperson for the opposition coalition Lamuka, maintaining his detention.
The decision was confirmed by several officials and close associates of the political alliance, triggering widespread outrage within opposition ranks.
Prolonged Detention Since October
Prince Epenge, who is also president of the ADD-Congo party, was arrested last October under circumstances his supporters continue to fiercely dispute.
In their application for his release pending trial, his legal team cited solid representation guarantees and emphasized the absence of any flight risk. The court’s rejection extends a pre-trial detention that is worsening tensions and weighing heavily on the political climate in Kinshasa.
Lamuka Denounces “Political Persecution”
The opposition coalition responded swiftly to the ruling. Party leaders condemned the refusal as further evidence of the ongoing politicization of the judicial system in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In a firm statement, Lamuka accused the government of weaponizing the justice system to silence critical voices and restrict democratic space ahead of major political milestones.
Demanding his immediate and unconditional release, Prince Epenge’s political allies called on national and international observers to remain vigilant regarding the treatment of opposition figures in the DRC.
With Mbote
