DRC braces for opposition protests over constitutional changes

The Constitutional Court’s endorsement of the referendum organization law has reignited fierce debates about potential constitutional amendments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Opposition factions, particularly the Article 64 coalition, strongly condemn the ruling, viewing it as a dangerous step toward altering the Constitution. Prince Epenge, a spokesperson for the coalition, has vowed to intensify public mobilization.

“We will not back down. We will channel all our strength and energy to ensure this law never takes effect in our nation,” he declared.

“The people are enraged. They must remain steadfast, united, and resolute in rejecting a third term and any attempt to divide the country,” he added.

Kinshasa residents voice growing concerns

As coalition leaders convened in the capital to strategize their next moves, ordinary residents expressed deep unease about the escalating political tensions. Many fear that upcoming protests could disrupt daily life and spiral into violence.

“Can their protests remain peaceful?” wondered one resident of Kinshasa, stressing the need to “avoid any loss of life.”

Another resident echoed these concerns, warning that “the political climate in the DRC could deteriorate further following this decision.”

Some citizens went further, accusing the ruling power of “fueling instability by deploying forces to disrupt opposition marches.”

Public sentiment appears increasingly volatile, with fears that “the population will bear the brunt of any unrest during demonstrations.”

Political dialogue at risk

Timo Roujean, an analyst at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, warned that swift presidential approval of the law could intensify political strife. He cautioned that if President Félix Tshisekedi signs the bill before August 15, it may derail ongoing efforts to foster political dialogue and embolden factions advocating confrontation over negotiation.

“A hasty endorsement would render dialogue efforts futile,” he stated, emphasizing that “in an already tense climate, where talk of a constitutional coup persists, this court decision will only fuel those who believe armed resistance is the only way to oppose the government.”

The Constitutional Court’s ruling has not resolved the standoff. With the presidential camp now armed with a legal framework and an unyielding opposition determined to block constitutional reforms, the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the DRC’s political future.