The government views the Constitutional Court’s validation of the referendum law as a legal milestone, but opposition groups see it as a dangerous precedent that could lead to constitutional changes. This decision has reignited political tensions across the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with the opposition vowing to continue its mobilization efforts.

The Article 64 coalition has strongly condemned the ruling, arguing that it paves the way for constitutional revisions they firmly oppose. Prince Epenge, a spokesperson for the coalition, has urged citizens to remain vigilant and mobilized.

“We will not back down. We will pool our strength and energy to ensure this law does not take effect in our country,” he declared.

He added that “the people are angry. They must stand firm, remain united, and resolutely reject any attempt at a third term or the country’s dismemberment.”

Residents of Kinshasa voice concerns over escalating tensions

As coalition leaders met in Kinshasa this week to strategize their next moves, many residents expressed worries about the potential for renewed political unrest. They fear that upcoming protests could disrupt daily life and escalate into violent confrontations.

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

Another resident shared similar concerns, stating, “I fear the political climate in the DRC could spiral out of control following this decision.”

One community member went further, accusing the ruling power of “stirring up trouble by deploying forces to destabilize opposition marches.”

A final resident highlighted the most vulnerable: “It is the people who will suffer the most if protests turn violent.”

Constitutional law could undermine political dialogue

Timo Roujean, an analyst at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, warns that the swift enactment of this law could severely damage political dialogue efforts. If President Félix Tshisekedi signs the legislation before August 15, he believes it could nullify any progress toward reconciliation and embolden factions advocating for armed resistance.

“If the law is enacted before mid-August, the dialogue initiative could collapse,” he cautioned, noting that “in an increasingly tense environment where constitutional coups are already being discussed, this ruling could fuel the narrative that violence is the only way to oppose the government.”

The Constitutional Court’s decision has not resolved the conflict. With the presidential camp now armed with a legal framework and an opposition determined to block any constitutional reforms, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the future of the political crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.