1. Mining agency chiefs suspended in Lualaba dispute

The mining minister suspended SAEMAPE’s national director and Lualaba provincial director, accusing them of failing to prevent unauthorized artisanal mining in licensed concessions and of irregularly placing fee-collecting services there. The decisions follow days of protests in Kolwezi over mining controls and mineral sales.

2. Makala prison stops most new admissions

The justice ministry temporarily barred most new detainees from Kinshasa’s Makala prison, which holds more than 16,000 people in space built for 1,500. Officials may authorize justified exceptions.

3. Twenty-three Ebola deaths reported outside treatment centers

Of 41 Ebola deaths newly reported nationally for a 24-hour period ending October 20, 23 occurred outside treatment centers. The same report recorded 67 confirmed infections.

4. Regulator says mining companies paid uncertified subcontractors

ARSP says a review of supplier lists from 14 major mining companies found that most paid subcontractors lacked required certificates. Its director estimated the subcontracting market examined at about $20 billion across periods between 2020 and 2025.

5. FRN sets out leadership structure as armed course draws opposition

Kabila’s FRN explained its leadership structure to local cadres in Goma, and a group including current and former legislators declared support. Belgium condemned Kabila’s leadership of the armed movement, while LUCHA urged him to renounce armed action.