**Demonstrations in Congo against the change of the Constitution: Opposition political parties mobilize**
In this year 2024, the Congolese political scene is marked by strong opposition to any attempt to revise or change the Constitution proposed by President Félix Tshisekedi. Opposition political parties, such as Bulambo Kilosho’s PANADER, Martin Fayulu’s ECIDE, Joseph Kabila’s PPRD, Matata Ponyo’s LGD, Moïse Katumbi’s ENSEMBLE POUR LA RÉPUBLIQUE, Pascal Isumbisho’s PARADISO, and the CSD, have today joined forces to vigorously denounce this project, which they describe as a presidential maneuver.
In a joint declaration made public on December 6, 2024 in Bukavu, these opposition parties expressed their firm conviction that the current Constitution was drawn up with the aim of ensuring the proper functioning of the institutions of the Republic, preventing internal conflicts and promoting social cohesion. They emphasize that the Constitution cannot under any circumstances be amended lightly, without taking into account the sovereignty of the Congolese people.
The banners brandished during this declaration bore strong slogans, such as “No to the change of the Constitution and to the third term of Félix Tshisekedi” or “Resistance to any unconstitutional modification.” These messages reflect the determination of the opposition political parties to defend democratic principles and protect the interests of the Congolese people.
By citing Article 64 of the Constitution, which calls for resistance to any attempt to usurp power or unconstitutional modification, the political and social forces united in this declaration launch a solemn appeal to the Congolese population to mobilize against this potential challenge to the foundations of the rule of law.
The declaration of the opposition political parties and social forces of South Kivu is unequivocal: any attempt to change the Constitution could lead to a real political crisis and threaten national unity. They are therefore planning a series of demonstrations in the coming days to express their disagreement and defend the sovereignty of the Congolese people against any attempt to abuse power.
In conclusion, this union of opposition political parties and social forces demonstrates their common commitment to protect the democratic achievements of the Congo and preserve the integrity of its institutions. Their call for popular mobilization illustrates the desire to defend democracy and republican values in the face of any threat to the future of the country.