Reflection on the institutional future in the DRC: The call for caution from the Secretary General of CENCO
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a crucial turning point in its political history, marked by the controversial proposal for a new Constitution by President Félix Tshisekedi. This initiative has sparked strong reactions, including that of Donatien Nshole, Secretary General of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), who expressed serious concerns about the risks and consequences of such an approach.
In a tense social context, marked by recurring strikes and a climate of uncertainty, Donatien Nshole warns against the repercussions of a modification of the Constitution. He underlines the fragility of the social situation in the DRC, where popular demands are intensifying without lasting solutions being found. In this context, touching the Constitution could aggravate tensions and compromise the stability of the country.
Security aspects are not left out of Nshole’s analysis, which highlights the risks of conflict and violence linked to a possible constitutional change. He emphasizes that the country is already fragile in terms of security, particularly in the eastern region, where ethnic tensions and armed groups threaten stability. A hasty constitutional revision could open new fronts of tensions and compromise the security of citizens.
On the political level, Donatien Nshole expresses his concerns about possible manipulation and instrumentalization of the Constitution for partisan purposes. He recalls the dubious practices that have tainted past elections and warns against any attack on the legitimacy of the democratic institutions of the DRC. A poorly prepared constitutional revision could further weaken the credibility of the institutions and encourage authoritarian excesses.
Faced with these major challenges, Donatien Nshole calls for caution and reflection, urging President Félix Tshisekedi to listen to the voices of civil society and bishops, guarantors of the general interest. He invites the Head of State to take into consideration the potential risks of a hasty constitutional revision and to favor dialogue and consultation to find solutions to current challenges. He insists on the importance of placing the interest of the Congolese people at the heart of political decisions, in order to guarantee peace and stability in the country.
In conclusion, Donatien Nshole’s position highlights the crucial challenges facing the DRC in its institutional evolution. His call for responsibility and caution resonates as a warning in the face of the social, security and political challenges that threaten the future of the country.He recalls that respect for the popular will and the preservation of democratic achievements are essential to ensure a stable and prosperous future for the Democratic Republic of Congo.