The Democratic Republic of Congo is contemplating a constitutional review that may extend President Félix Tshisekedi’s tenure. Key government officials assert that the current constitution is inadequate for managing public power. Opposition leaders express apprehension that these reforms are designed to perpetuate Tshisekedi’s hold on power. Prominent figures and the Catholic Church have voiced strong opposition, warning of potential instability. President Tshisekedi insists that any changes regarding term limits would solely be determined by the people’s will.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a proposed constitutional revision is under consideration that could potentially extend President Félix Tshisekedi’s tenure. This speculation arises as Augustin Kabuya, a prominent associate of the president, claims that the existing constitution has limitations regarding public power management. The opposition parties express concern that such revisions may enable the current administration to maintain power beyond the established term limits, which permit a president to serve a maximum of two terms. During a recent visit to Kisangani, President Tshisekedi emphasized the need for a constitution that resonates with Congolese identity, stating, “This constitution is not good. It was drafted abroad, by foreigners. Our constitution must be based on our way of life.” He announced plans to form a national commission composed of Congolese citizens from various fields to draft a new constitution that reflects local realities. The existing DRC constitution was adopted in 2006 following a referendum, a product of the political climate that followed the Kabila administration’s oppressive tenure. Initially opposed by the contemporary opposition, including the late Étienne Tshisekedi, the constitution faced critiques of its reform proposals back in 2015 when the Kabila government sought changes, perceived as efforts to maintain power. Now, with Tshisekedi’s government at the helm, his party, the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), is advocating for constitutional reform. Kabuya has publicly stated, “The constitution has demonstrated its limitations in the exercise of public power; it has to evolve to adapt to the political management and progress of Congolese society.” Despite Tshisekedi’s assertion that any changes to presidential term limits would be decided by the people, internal discussions within the UDPS have hinted at a different narrative, suggesting that the president has only served three out of five years due to institutional delays following elections. Those opposing the proposed reforms include notable opposition figures such as Moïse Katumbi and Martin Fayulu, who have publicly committed to thwarting any revision, arguing that the current constitution does not hinder governmental operations. Furthermore, the Catholic Church has also voiced concerns about the potential instability such changes could cause within the country. Monsignor Donatien Nshole warned that this proposal might exacerbate existing tensions, indicating, “This issue could destabilize the country, especially in the current context, where the country is not stable.” In conclusion, the discussion surrounding the constitutional review in the DRC highlights a significant political divide between the ruling party and the opposition. While the government seeks to adapt the constitution to better reflect national realities, opponents worry that these reforms may serve to prolong the current administration’s grip on power. The voices of dissent, combined with caution from religious leaders, suggest that the path forward remains contentious and fraught with potential conflict.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s current constitutional debate arises from President Félix Tshisekedi’s desire to amend a constitution that he argues does not align with Congolese realities. This topic is deeply rooted in the nation’s historical struggle between governance and power retention, highlighted by previous attempts to reform the constitution under former President Joseph Kabila, which were met with fierce opposition. Observations of current political maneuvers indicate that the government’s proposed constitutional changes could be interpreted as an attempt to maintain authority beyond the legally prescribed limits. The situation is complicated by polarized public sentiment and the influence of major opposition figures and institutions, including the Catholic Church.
The proposed constitutional review in the Democratic Republic of Congo represents a critical juncture in the nation’s governance, raising significant concerns regarding political integrity and democratic principles. The division between the ruling party and the opposition reflects fears of potential authoritarianism under the guise of constitutional evolution. The necessity for transparency and public involvement in any constitutional changes remains paramount, as the stakes for the future of Congolese democracy are considerable.
Original Source: www.monitor.co.ug
