KINSHASA, Congo (AP) — Violent clashes erupted on Friday in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kinshasa, during a rally opposing a proposed constitutional amendment. Opponents claim that this change could enable President Félix Tshisekedi to pursue a third term in office.
The demonstration was organized by the opposition coalition C64, which consists of several main political parties that have united under a common cause. The protest turned chaotic when police unleashed tear gas to disperse the crowds after altercations occurred between the opposition supporters and pro-government activists outside the Parliament building.
Congo is currently grappling with multiple crises, including an ongoing Ebola outbreak and a resurgence of violence involving the M23 rebels, who are backed by Rwanda. This instability adds to the already complex political landscape, with over 100 armed groups vying for control in the eastern provinces of the nation.
Félix Tshisekedi, who is 62 years old, has been President since 2019. He is set to complete his second five-year term in 2028. Tshisekedi has indicated he may seek a third term, contingent upon approval from the electorate through a referendum. This statement has aggravated existing tensions, particularly among opposition groups.
As per the Congolese Constitution, any alterations to presidential term limits are prohibited. However, a bill currently being examined by the National Assembly, the lower chamber of Congress, proposes to allow the president to amend constitutional provisions under circumstances deemed as a "major dysfunction" that paralyzes state institutions. This would potentially be facilitated through a referendum, further raising concerns among opponents.
The newly formed C64 coalition, which came together in May, has expressed strong opposition to the proposed amendments. They warn that such changes represent a "serious threat" to the nation’s stability and democratic processes. The coalition aims to counter Tshisekedi’s perceived attempts to consolidate power.
During the rally, tensions escalated into physical confrontations, culminating in injuries to several individuals. Among the injured was Martin Fayulu, a prominent opposition leader and the runner-up in the 2018 presidential election. Images published on his official Facebook page revealed visible injuries, with blood around his eyes and on his shirt, as supporters aided him through the crowd.
The situation in Congo remains volatile, characterized by a struggle for power and persistent social unrest. As opposition factions unite for their collective interests, the implications of proposed legislative changes continue to raise alarms about the country’s political future. The developments in Kinshasa reflect a broader context of dissent against potential governmental overreach and an urgent call for democratic integrity.
