In the turbulent political context of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the re-election of Félix Tshisekedi as president has revived debates around the revision of the constitution. The announcement of the possible modification of the fundamental law by the head of state has generated controversy both within the political class and among Congolese citizens.
During a speech to the Congolese community in Belgium, Félix Tshisekedi expressed the need to update the constitution to adapt it to the current realities of the country. This approach, although perceived as a desire to guarantee the stability and progress of the nation, has provoked various contradictory reactions. While the ruling majority is open to this possibility, the opposition and part of civil society are firmly opposed to any constitutional revision.
The proposal to establish a multidisciplinary national commission to consider a possible new constitution has been greeted with skepticism, even hostility, by some political actors. Critics of this approach see Félix Tshisekedi as a president who wants to extend his term beyond the established constitutional limits.
Following these announcements, strong reactions have emerged, including from Matata Ponyo and his LGD party. Indeed, during the LGD congress recently held in Kinshasa, the former Prime Minister clearly expressed his opposition to any attempt to revise the constitution. For these discordant voices, political stability and Congolese democracy are jeopardized by a possible change in the country’s institutional foundations.
It is crucial to emphasize that this debate on constitutional revision in the DRC is symptomatic of the tensions and political issues that are driving the country. The question of the legitimacy of the power in place, the political ambitions of the leaders and the preservation of democratic achievements remains at the heart of the concerns of Congolese citizens.
Thus, the political future of the Democratic Republic of Congo seems to be in suspense, between the supporters of a constitutional revision and the defenders of respect for institutions and democratic alternation. The way forward for the country and its citizens remains uncertain, and only an inclusive and transparent national consultation will be able to overcome these divergences and guarantee a stable and prosperous future for all.