Constitutional reform debate heats up in DRC as opposition cries foul
Political tensions are rising as the opposition mobilises, with accusations of authoritarian drift and hopes for renewal fuelling the explosive debate over constitutional reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The debate over constitutional change in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to divide public opinion. On May 27, the National Assembly passed a bill setting the rules for a referendum. Since then, tensions have escalated between the ruling majority, which insists on a necessary institutional reorganisation, and the opposition, which accuses the government of a plot to keep President Félix Tshisekedi in office.
A youth divided over a major issue
Beyond political speeches, a central question remains: what do Congolese youth think? They make up the majority of the population. Is this reform a historic opportunity to rebuild the nation or a distraction from urgent social and security challenges? In Kinshasa, young people express contrasting opinions. Some see the reform project as a chance to redefine the country’s institutional foundations. Others question the government’s timing and priorities amid persistent economic and security difficulties.
Katumbi raises the stakes: “a red line”
Opposition figure Moïse Katumbi reacted vehemently: “The Constitution is not a shirt you change at will.” He argues the government is crossing a red line. In an exclusive interview, Katumbi discusses protests, national dialogue, governance, and the country’s political future. He directly addresses President Tshisekedi, questioning his intentions and the project’s implications for Congolese democracy.
Coalition C64 announces legal offensive
On June 9 in Kinshasa, the C64 coalition, which brings together several opposition parties including Moïse Katumbi’s, plans to file a complaint against President Félix Tshisekedi. It accuses him of attempting to seize power by force. This move marks a new escalation in political tensions in an already charged atmosphere.
Legal expert Jonas Ngalamulume, however, downplays the action’s significance. He describes it as largely symbolic. While acknowledging the complaint is part of the opposition’s political strategy, he notes its concrete legal impact may be limited. Nonetheless, it fuels public debate and increases pressure on institutions.
As positions harden on both sides, the constitutional reform question has moved beyond legal dimensions to become a major political issue. Caught between reform ambitions and accusations of authoritarian drift, the institutional future of the DRC remains uncertain, hinging on upcoming decisions and public reactions.
