DR Congo constitutional reform debate intensifies

Catholic Church leaders warned that the push to amend the Democratic Republic of Congo’s 2006 Constitution is proceeding without sufficient understanding of the text. Abbé Donatien Nshole said many campaigners “do not even know the articles they want to change.”

Political figures also voiced concerns. UDPS/Tshisekedi cadre Didier Badibanga N’Sambuka urged restraint ahead of a planned C64 march on 8 July, calling the initiative potentially destabilising and stressing dialogue and national cohesion. National deputy Michel Moto Muhima defended a constitutional referendum, arguing it could free resources for schools and hospitals and accusing opponents of seeking “support from Kigali.”

RSD leader Dr Ivan Ilunga Ngindu backed President Félix Tshisekedi’s reform drive, accusing the opposition of contradictory statements and noting the current constitution hampers executive action. The Conference of Catholic Bishops (CENCO) issued an alarmist statement describing the nation as “in peril,” highlighting ongoing insecurity in the East, humanitarian crises, and the risk that the constitutional debate could fuel further tensions. All actors called for legal, peaceful processes and greater national dialogue.