Kinshasa: Political tensions are rising in the Democratic Republic of Congo after opposition groups staged protests in the capital, Kinshasa, against proposed constitutional reforms that they fear could allow President Félix Tshisekedi to remain in power beyond his current term.
Thousands of opposition supporters gathered in parts of Kinshasa on Thursday to voice their concerns over plans that could lead to changes in the country's constitution. The demonstrations were organized by the opposition coalition known as C64, which brings together several political parties and leaders who oppose the government's reform agenda.
The protests quickly turned tense as clashes broke out between demonstrators, supporters of the ruling party and security forces. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds in several areas of the city, while some protesters accused authorities of trying to suppress dissent. Reports from local officials and opposition leaders indicated that a number of people were injured during the confrontations.
At the center of the dispute is a proposed constitutional reform process that critics say could open the door for President Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office. Under the current constitution, presidents are limited to two terms. Opposition leaders argue that changing these provisions would weaken democratic institutions and undermine the country's constitutional safeguards.
The controversy intensified after Congo's National Assembly recently approved legislation that could pave the way for a national referendum on constitutional amendments. Supporters of the proposal argue that citizens should have the right to decide whether changes are needed through a democratic vote. However, opposition groups insist that the reforms are politically motivated and designed to benefit the current administration.
President Tshisekedi has previously stated that any constitutional changes would ultimately depend on the will of the Congolese people. Earlier this year, he suggested that if citizens supported reforms through a referendum, he would respect that decision. His comments sparked immediate criticism from opposition leaders, who accused him of preparing the ground for an extension of his rule.
The issue has united several opposition figures who have often been divided in the past. Prominent leaders, including Martin Fayulu and Moïse Katumbi, have joined forces to oppose the proposed changes. They argue that the government should focus on addressing the country's many challenges rather than pursuing constitutional reforms.
The political debate comes at a difficult time for the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country continues to face insecurity in its eastern regions, where fighting involving the M23 rebel movement has displaced large numbers of people. Authorities are also dealing with public health concerns, including efforts to contain disease outbreaks in some areas.
Many analysts believe that the constitutional debate could become one of the most important political issues facing the country in the coming years. Memories remain fresh of earlier political crises linked to election delays and disputes over presidential term limits. Observers warn that any attempt to alter the constitutional framework could increase political instability if not handled carefully and transparently.
For now, no constitutional amendment has been approved, and the process remains at an early stage. However, the recent protests have highlighted the deep divisions surrounding the issue. Opposition groups have promised to continue mobilizing supporters, while government allies maintain that any future changes should be decided by voters.
As the debate continues, the Democratic Republic of Congo finds itself at a crucial political moment. The decisions made in the coming months could shape the country's democratic future and influence the political landscape ahead of the 2028 presidential election.