Constitutional Crisis Looms in Democratic Republic of Congo as Opposition Unites

A new political alliance named ‘National Awakening’ has emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo to oppose potential constitutional amendments that critics fear could extend President Felix Tshisekedi’s tenure indefinitely. The coalition, comprising political and civil society leaders, plans its inaugural gathering in December to commemorate the 2005 referendum that established the current constitution.
Opposition figures, including prominent leaders Martin Fayulu and Moïse Katumbi, have launched separate initiatives to resist the proposed constitutional review. These leaders characterize any attempts to modify the constitution as an act of high treason against the nation’s democratic principles.
The controversy stems from Tshisekedi’s administration claiming the current constitution requires modernization. His supporters argue that the existing framework, developed during a period of conflict, reflects national vulnerability rather than strength. They emphasize the need for constitutional reforms to protect national sovereignty amid evolving regional political and military dynamics.
The current constitution explicitly limits presidents to two terms in office. The debate highlights deeper tensions between maintaining democratic safeguards and addressing contemporary governance challenges. The opposition’s unified stance against constitutional changes reflects growing concern about potential democratic backsliding in one of Africa’s largest nations.
This political standoff emerges at a critical juncture in Congolese democracy, setting the stage for a significant constitutional debate that could reshape the nation’s political landscape and future governance structure.