Democratic Republic of the Congo

SHORT INFORMATION

Political system of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

After a four-year interlude between two constitutions, with new political institutions established at the various levels of government, as well as new administrative divisions for the provinces throughout the country, a new constitution came into effect in 2006 and politics in the Democratic Republic of the Congo finally settled into a stable presidential democratic republic. The 2003 transitional constitution had established a parliament with a bicameral legislature, consisting of a Senate and a National Assembly.

SHORT INFORMATION

Religion in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Christianity is the majority religion in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, followed by about 80% of the population. Denominations include Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 20% and Kimbanguist 10%. Muslims (mainly Sunni) represent 10% of the population, others (including syncretic sects and indigenous beliefs) account for 10%, according to the CIA World Factbook.

HOLIDAYS AND TRADITIONS

Democratic Republic of the Congo — Festivals and Events

The Congo celebrates the usual holidays – New Year’s Day, Labor Day and Christmas – plus local events commemorating heroes and significant dates in history.