The Constitutional Court’s validation of the referendum organization law has reignited fierce debates about a potential constitutional overhaul in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While authorities view this as a legal milestone, opposition groups warn of democratic backsliding and vow to escalate their mobilization efforts.

The Article 64 coalition, a leading opposition force, condemns the ruling, arguing it paves the way for unconstitutional reforms they adamantly oppose. Prince Epenge, a coalition spokesperson, delivered a defiant message to the public: “We will not back down. We will unite our strength and energy to ensure this law never takes effect in our country.”

Epenge emphasized the public’s growing anger, urging citizens to “stand firm, remain mobilized, and resolutely reject any third presidential term or attempts to divide the nation.”

Kinshasa residents voice growing concerns

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

One resident questioned the opposition’s approach: “Will their demands be pursued peacefully?” He stressed the need to “avoid any loss of life” during demonstrations.

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

A third resident placed responsibility on the government, stating: “The real troublemaker right now is the ruling power, which frequently deploys individuals to disrupt opposition marches.”

The public’s anxiety extends beyond street protests. One citizen noted: “The real victims will be ordinary people when demonstrations turn violent.”

Political dialogue at risk of collapse

Timo Roujean, an analyst with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, cautions that swift presidential approval of the law could harden political divisions. He warns that if President Félix Tshisekedi signs the legislation before August 15, it may derail ongoing dialogue efforts and embolden factions advocating armed resistance.

Roujean highlighted the rising tensions, noting that critics already accuse the government of orchestrating a “constitutional coup.” He cautioned: “This Constitutional Court ruling will only fuel arguments that violent opposition is the only viable response to government actions.”

The court’s decision has intensified the standoff between the presidential camp, now armed with a legal framework, and an opposition determined to block constitutional changes. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the crisis escalates or finds a path toward resolution.