The electoral landscape in the upper house of the Congolese Parliament is becoming clearer. Following the official withdrawal of Senator Françoise Bemba 's (MLC) candidacy, Senator Basengezi Kantintima is now the sole candidate for the position of second vice-president of the Senate.

A strategic withdrawal from the MLC

The Movement for the Liberation of Congo (MLC) formalized the withdrawal of its candidate via a letter signed by its secretary general, Fidèle Babala. This choice was not made by chance:

1. Objective: To preserve cohesion within the ruling coalition.
2. Motivation: To support the political line of the Sacred Union of the Nation .

Establishment of the review committee

On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, a plenary session was convened at the People's Palace by rapporteur Néfertiti Ngudianza. Two major items were on the agenda:

1. State of siege: Examination and adoption of the bill extending this measure to a part of the national territory.
2. Ad hoc committee: Official installation of the team responsible for studying the validity of the candidacy for the position of 2nd vice-president.

Reminder of criteria and schedule

The President of the Senate, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, reiterated that all candidates must meet strict criteria regarding experience, education, and integrity . The application must include a certified curriculum vitae and, for party members, a letter of consent from their political party.

Key date: The election and installation of the new second vice-president are scheduled for April 3, 2026 .