Congolese opposition C64 issues firm ultimatum over constitutional overhaul
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the C64 opposition coalition continues to exert significant pressure against the presidential camp’s proposed constitutional revision. From Kinshasa, leaders of the C64 have reiterated a strong ultimatum to President Félix Tshisekedi, demanding the complete withdrawal of any plans to amend the nation’s foundational law. This political struggle intensifies against a backdrop of already heightened security tensions across the country’s eastern regions, adding complexity to African politics.
A united Congolese opposition rejects constitutional revision
The C64 platform, comprising several prominent figures from the Congolese opposition, coalesced specifically in opposition to the constitutional revision advocated by Félix Tshisekedi. Its leaders assert that altering the fundamental text would pave the way for an institutional restructuring designed to consolidate the ruling power’s position. Their message to the President remains unequivocal: publicly abandon the proposed changes or face widespread public mobilization. For the coalition, the Constitution of 2006, which was ratified by referendum following the post-conflict transition, represents a non-negotiable democratic achievement. Key members of the C64 are particularly concerned about potential modifications to clauses that limit the number and duration of presidential terms. This perspective resonates with segments of society in Africa and various religious institutions, which have voiced their apprehensions regarding any rewriting of the constitution in recent months.
President Félix Tshisekedi’s political strategy in Kinshasa
Having secured re-election in December 2023 for a second term, President Félix Tshisekedi had, as early as autumn 2024, suggested the need for a new Constitution, which he believes would be better suited to the realities of the DRC. The presidential administration’s rationale highlights the perceived inadequacy of the current text in addressing the development and governance imperatives of a vast nation of over one hundred million citizens. Conversely, opponents view this as a pretext designed to circumvent term limits and solidify the ‘Union Sacrée’s’ hold on state power. The head of state has announced the formation of a commission tasked with reviewing the matter, a move critics interpret as the initial phase of a predetermined process. For the opposition coalition, this is not merely a technical discussion or an academic exercise, but a pivotal political moment. This situation echoes historical patterns observed across the African continent, where constitutional amendments presented as modernizing reforms have often led to alterations in electoral timelines, impacting governance Africa-wide.
Tense social and security climate in the DRC
The constitutional debate unfolds within an exceptionally challenging environment. In the eastern part of the country, the provinces of Nord-Kivu and Sud-Kivu have faced a large-scale offensive by the M23 armed group since the beginning of the year, reportedly backed by external forces. The fall of Goma and subsequently Bukavu during the first quarter significantly weakened state authority and fueled domestic dissent. The opposition contends that the government’s primary focus should be on restoring territorial sovereignty, rather than pursuing institutional reforms. Economically, the DRC maintains its position as a strategic supplier of cobalt and copper for global supply chains, minerals crucial for the energy transition. Investors are closely monitoring the political climate in Kinshasa, understanding that any prolonged institutional crisis could impact the stability of major mining contracts. Regional partners, including Angola and South Africa, are also observing the unfolding political standoff with keen interest. It remains uncertain whether the C64’s ultimatum will lead to coordinated street demonstrations or primarily political escalation. Previous calls for protests by the opposition have resulted in varied levels of mobilization, often met with a strong police presence. The coalition is now banking on a broader alliance with civil society and religious organizations to influence the presidential agenda. The opposition coordination intends to sustain pressure until the head of state explicitly abandons the proposed constitutional changes.
