Fatshimétrie: Debate on constitutional revision in the DRC
At the heart of the political scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) is currently sparking lively debates regarding the revision of the constitution. During a speech at the party headquarters, Secretary General Augustin Kabuya affirmed the need to review certain aspects of the 2006 constitution, pointing out gaps that hinder presidential action. This position has led to strong reactions, particularly from Justicia Asbl, a human rights organization.
The organization Justicia Asbl highlighted contradictions in Augustin Kabuya’s statements, highlighting a possible violation of Article 220 of the constitution. Indeed, these statements have raised concerns about a possible challenge to the constitutional regime in place, and for unavowed political purposes. A look back at the UDPS’s past commitment against any constitutional revision under the former Kabila presidency was also discussed.
The issue of constitutional revision divides opinion in the DRC, while President Félix Tshisekedi seems open to this possibility. His desire to provide the country with a constitution more adapted to current issues was revealed during an intervention before the Congolese diaspora in Europe. While part of the opposition remains fiercely opposed to this approach, the idea of a new constitution is supported by political figures such as Adolphe Muzito.
The debates on constitutional revision reveal crucial issues for the political future of the DRC. Between the need to adapt to contemporary realities and the preservation of the fundamental principles of democracy, political actors are faced with a major dilemma. The inviolability of certain provisions of the constitution raises questions about the limits of constituent power and the legitimacy of the reforms envisaged.
At the heart of this complex debate is the institutional future of the DRC, where political stability and democratic governance are at stake. The next steps in this constitutional reflection process promise to be eventful, with divergent positions fueling controversies and tensions within the Congolese political class. In the background, the quest for a fragile balance between respect for the constitutional order and the imperatives of modernization and transformation of the country is emerging.