Catholic bishops in DRC oppose Tshisekedi’s constitutional reform plans
The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) has formally voiced its opposition to the constitutional revision project championed by President Félix Tshisekedi. Catholic leaders in the République démocratique du Congo argue that such a move would trigger significant institutional instability and undermine the country’s democratic progress. This public stance adds a critical layer to a political debate that has been intensifying in Kinshasa for several months.
The Catholic Church stands firm against constitutional changes
In a statement of notable resolve, the Congolese episcopate described any attempt to modify the basic law as inappropriate given the current national climate. CENCO, an influential voice in the public sphere of the DRC, maintains that the 2006 Constitution remains the only legitimate framework, having emerged from a difficult national consensus following years of transition. The prelates express concern that a total overhaul of the text could eventually be used to alter electoral regulations to favor the current administration.
President Félix Tshisekedi first suggested the need for a new Constitution in October 2024, arguing that the existing document is ill-suited to Congolese realities. According to the Head of State, the current text was drafted under foreign influence and serves as an obstacle to national growth. While a commission was expected to begin deliberations in 2025, this prospect has sparked deep anxiety within the Church, as well as among opposition parties and civil society groups.
A history of resisting political extensions
The opposition from the bishops follows a long-standing tradition of protecting democratic norms. In 2015, during the tenure of Joseph Kabila, CENCO was instrumental in protesting attempts to change presidential term limits. The Church also played a central role in brokering the Saint Sylvester Agreement in December 2016, which helped the nation navigate a major political crisis. This history gives their current intervention significant political weight.
The bishops have reminded the public that the Congolese Constitution contains “locked” provisions that are considered intangible, specifically regarding the number and length of presidential terms. In their view, tampering with these safeguards would be akin to opening a political Pandora’s box. While supporters of the presidency argue the goal is to modernize the state’s architecture rather than extend a mandate, the Catholic hierarchy remains unconvinced and instead advocates for the strict enforcement of existing laws.
This debate extends beyond legal technicalities into the realm of deep social symbolism, as over 40% of the population identifies as Catholic. The Church’s message resonates far beyond political circles, with many parishes already sharing the bishops’ concerns during Sunday services, indicating a mobilization that reaches the grassroots level.
A defining moment for Félix Tshisekedi’s leadership
Following his re-election in December 2023, Félix Tshisekedi holds a substantial majority in the National Assembly, which theoretically allows for the initiation of a revision process. However, the resistance from CENCO makes the political path forward much more complex. The President must now navigate the opposition of an institution with immense moral authority, whose views are closely monitored by international partners in Washington, Paris, and Bruxelles.
This political friction comes at a time of high security tension in the eastern part of the country, where the Congolese military is engaged in conflict with the M23 in North Kivu and South Kivu. Many observers suggest that starting a constitutional debate now could distract from urgent military and humanitarian priorities. Conversely, some see the move as a strategy to strengthen the executive branch amidst regional instability and external pressures.
The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether the government proceeds with its timeline or chooses to delay the project. As the Parliament, the Union sacrée coalition, and various civil society organizations prepare to take their stands, the Catholic Church has made it clear that it will not remain a silent observer. This growing tension between Kinshasa and the episcopal conference could fundamentally alter the political landscape of the DRC for years to come.
