Democratic Republic Of Congo

Congo opposition calls for protests against plans to reform constitution

By |

Tshisekedi said the current constitution, ratified by a referendum in 2005, needed to change because it did not align with the country's current realities.

Opposition politicians in the Democratic Republic of Congo called on Wednesday for nationwide protests against President Felix Tshisekedi's plans to revise the constitution.

Sworn into office in January for a second and final term, Tshisekedi said in October a commission would be established to suggest potential changes to the constitution.

Critics have said it could be a tactic to remove term limits and allow him to run again.

Tshisekedi said the current constitution, ratified by a referendum in 2005, needed to change because it did not align with the country's current realities.

In a joint statement on Wednesday, opposition politicians including former president Joseph Kabila and former presidential candidates Martin Fayulu and ⁠Moise Katumbi called for protests to "block" Tshisekedi.

Congo's presidency did not respond to a request for comment.

Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya said on Monday no one should question the president's intentions, and that debates around the constitutional reform should be de-politicised.

"We're at the beginning of our mandate... The President of the Republic still has four years to go, and we must avoid attributing intentions to him," Muyaya told reporters.

Reader comments

Follow Us and Stay Connected!

We'd love for you to join our community and stay updated with our latest stories and updates. Follow us on our social media channels and be part of the conversation!

Let's stay connected and keep the dialogue going!

Latest News For You


x
Join to get instant updates