The debate surrounding the revision of the Constitution in the Democratic Republic of Congo is provoking strong reactions and raising crucial questions about the political future of the country. Indeed, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Jean-Pierre Bemba, recently took a position in favor of a targeted revision of the Constitution, while dismissing fears related to a possible constitutional change.
In a recent intervention on the airwaves of Top Congo, Jean-Pierre Bemba highlighted the need for a serious and constructive discussion around certain articles of the Constitution to improve the governance of the country. Among the points he raised, Article 10 on Congolese nationality caught his attention. He believes that this article is too restrictive and must be revisited in order to take into account the situation of Congolese who have acquired another nationality for various reasons.
Furthermore, Article 198 concerning the modalities of election of provincial governors and senators was also questioned by Jean-Pierre Bemba. He highlights the lack of transparency in these processes and proposes that governors be elected by direct suffrage to strengthen the legitimacy of their mandate.
Another criticism made by the Deputy Prime Minister concerns the articles relating to ethnic minorities in the Constitution. For him, the notion of ethnic minority is vague and subject to problematic interpretations. He highlights the ethnic diversity of the DRC with its more than 450 ethnic groups and questions the relevance of categorizing certain communities as minorities.
Jean-Pierre Bemba advocates for the establishment of a commission dedicated to constitutional revision, chaired by the Head of State. He calls for these discussions to be conducted in a peaceful and constructive manner, emphasizing the need to modernize the Constitution to meet current governance challenges.
Ultimately, Jean-Pierre Bemba’s position invites reflection on the evolution of the constitutional framework in the DRC and the need to adapt it to the realities of the country. Far from fears of sudden changes, this approach suggests a measured and thoughtful revision, in the best interests of the Congolese nation.