The Congolese government is considering a review of the constitution, raising fears among opposition factions that this may enable President Felix Tshisekedi to extend his tenure. Tshisekedi plans to form a commission to draft a new constitution, arguing the current one does not reflect Congolese culture. Opposition leaders assert that any changes are aimed at consolidating the president’s power, expressing strong resistance to the proposal amid calls for protecting democracy, with concerns voiced even by the Catholic Church on the potential destabilization of the country.
The Congolese government is contemplating a constitutional review, a move that has sparked concern among opposition parties fearing it may facilitate President Felix Tshisekedi’s extension in office. Tshisekedi recently articulated the necessity of establishing a “worthy” constitution aligned with Congolese values. During a recent visit to Kisangani in northeastern Congo, the President announced plans to form a commission next year that would comprise Congolese representatives from diverse sectors to conceive a new constitution that reflects the nation’s realities. He expressed dissatisfaction with the existing constitution, which he claims was imposed by foreign interests. The current constitution was ratified in 2006 following a referendum, intended to end a tumultuous era of power struggles and promote democratic practices. At that time, the opposition, led by Étienne Tshisekedi—father of the current president—urged a rejection of the constitution. However, in 2015, attempts by the Kabila administration to amend it faced fierce opposition, with suspicions that the intent was to maintain power. Now the landscape has shifted; Tshisekedi’s UDPS party is proactively advocating for constitutional reform. Augustin Kabuya, the interim leader of the UDPS, stated that the constitution “has demonstrated its limitations in the exercise of public power; it has to evolve to be properly adapted to the political management and progress of Congolese society.” While the current law allows a president to serve a maximum of two terms, Tshisekedi asserts that only the populace can determine if term limits should change. However, some within the UDPS argue that he has only completed three years of his five-year term, as preparations for elections consume time that should be accounted for. The opposition remains resolute against any alterations to the constitutional framework, believing that such changes would serve to ensure Tshisekedi and his associates retain power indefinitely. Olivier Kamitatu, spokesman for opposition figure Moïse Katumbi, claims that the objective of the reform is “to enable Félix Tshisekedi and his clan to retain power for life and continue to rule the Congo.” Opposition leader Martin Fayulu has asserted his commitment to blocking any modifications, stating, “I will be there with the people. I am going to stand in the way of Mr. Tshisekedi, just as I did with Kabila. We are going to prevent Tshisekedi from touching our constitution.” The Catholic Church has also voiced concerns about the potential for instability arising from the proposed revisions. Monsignor Donatien Nshole highlighted that the situation in the country is precarious, emphasizing that “today’s politician, who favours only his own interests” is a dangerous precedent for Congolese society.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s consideration of a constitutional revision reflects ongoing tensions surrounding political power and governance. Following years of turmoil under previous administrations, the 2006 constitution aimed to establish democratic norms through a nationwide referendum. Despite this, significant political divisions persist, particularly between the ruling party and opposition factions, concerning the trajectory of governance and the preservation of democratic ideals. Tshisekedi’s assertions regarding the need for a new constitution resonates with sentiments of national identity but simultaneously raises alarms about personal motivations to consolidate power further. Opposition leaders and religious authorities are firmly against any constitutional amendment that could jeopardize democratic foundations established over the last two decades.
In conclusion, the potential review of the Congolese constitution spearheaded by President Felix Tshisekedi has ignited a significant political debate. While Tshisekedi emphasizes the need for a constitution that reflects Congolese realities and enhances governance, the opposition and various stakeholders perceive this initiative as a veiled attempt to prolong his rule. The divergent views reveal deep-rooted tensions within Congolese politics and underscore the critical importance of protecting democratic processes against unilateral reforms. Opposition leaders, alongside ecclesiastical representatives, continue to resist any modification of the constitution that might facilitate extensions of presidential power, highlighting the necessity of safeguarding the democratic framework established since 2006.
Original Source: www.theeastafrican.co.ke
