By Benson Daniel
Police in the Democratic Republic of Congo have dispersed opposition-led demonstrations against proposed constitutional changes that critics say could clear the way for President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office.
The protests took place on Tuesday in the capital, Kinshasa, and several other cities, with police firing tear gas and warning shots as hundreds of demonstrators gathered. The demonstrations were organised by C64, a coalition of opposition groups opposed to the proposed amendments.
The proposed constitutional changes have become a major political issue in the country because the current constitution limits presidents to two terms. Tshisekedi, who has been in office since 2019, has expressed support for changing the constitution and has indicated that he could seek another term if the legal framework is altered.
Opposition groups argue that the proposed changes could weaken existing presidential term limits and have urged citizens to resist any attempt to extend the president’s stay in power. The C64 coalition includes opposition figures who have previously challenged Tshisekedi’s government.
The demonstrations reportedly began peacefully before tensions escalated. Police intervened after clashes involving protesters and groups supportive of the government were reported in Kinshasa. Activists said dozens of people were arrested during the unrest.
The government has defended the constitutional review process while maintaining that demonstrations must comply with the law. Government officials have also accused opposition figures of spreading misinformation surrounding the proposed reforms.
The latest confrontation comes as the DRC faces several other major challenges. The country is dealing with a renewed Ebola outbreak while fighting with M23 rebels continues in the east, adding pressure to an already difficult political and security environment.
The dispute over constitutional reform is likely to remain a central political issue as lawmakers consider the proposed amendments. Any change affecting presidential term limits could have significant consequences for the country’s political system and the preparations for future elections.
For Tshisekedi’s opponents, the issue is not simply about constitutional reform but about whether existing limits on presidential power should remain unchanged. The government, meanwhile, has maintained that constitutional changes can be pursued through the country’s legal and political processes.
The latest protests show that the proposed amendments have already become a source of significant political tension, with opposition groups prepared to mobilise against changes they believe could alter the rules governing presidential tenure
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