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DRC opposition protests against proposed constitutional changes
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing significant political unrest as the C64 opposition coalition led nationwide protests on September 15, 2026. The demonstrations, held in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and other cities, aim to block proposed constitutional changes that critics argue could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to bypass term limits and seek a third presidential mandate.
In Kinshasa, clashes erupted between protesters and pro-government supporters. Security forces responded with tear gas and warning shots to disperse crowds. Reports indicate that at least 10 protesters were arrested, and several injuries were documented. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu accused the state of using political party militias to target demonstrators.
Amidst the unrest, President Tshisekedi has moved forward with plans for a national dialogue, having signed a decree on September 13 to establish an organizing committee. However, the opposition has rejected this move, arguing that the committee is placed under the direct authority of the President, undermining its independence. The country continues to face additional challenges, including an Ebola outbreak and ongoing security conflicts in the eastern regions.
Entities
C64 · C64 Coalition · Democratic Republic of the Congo · Félix Tshisekedi · Kinshasa · Martin Fayulu · National Assembly
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 7 SOURCES] The current DRC constitution limits presidential terms to two five-year increments. trinidadtribune.com · barbadosgazette.com · www.theheritagetimes.com · uzalendonews.co.ke · afrikactus.com · +2 more
- [● 15 SOURCES] Protesters are demonstrating against constitutional changes that could allow President Tshisekedi to seek a third term. trinidadtribune.com · barbadosgazette.com · newscentraltv.com · srnnews.com · correiokianda.info · +10 more
- [● 3 SOURCES] Opposition leader Martin Fayulu accused the state of working with a political party militia. srnnews.com · foxtime.cd · ca.news.yahoo.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The National Assembly is considering a bill that would allow constitutional amendments in cases of major dysfunction. srnnews.com · ca.news.yahoo.com
- [● 16 SOURCES] The C64 opposition coalition organized nationwide protests on September 15, 2026. trinidadtribune.com · barbadosgazette.com · newscentraltv.com · srnnews.com · correiokianda.info · +10 more
- [● 2 SOURCES] The new committee is placed under the direct authority of the President. www.laprosperite.cd · www.africa-press.net
- [● 6 SOURCES] Police used tear gas to disperse crowds in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbandaka. trinidadtribune.com · barbadosgazette.com · newscentraltv.com · srnnews.com · ca.news.yahoo.com · +1 more
- [● 2 SOURCES] President Felix Tshisekedi signed a decree on September 13, 2026, to establish a National Dialogue Organizing Committee. www.laprosperite.cd · www.africa-press.net
- [● 4 SOURCES] At least 10 protesters were arrested during clashes with security officers. radiogeneration.co.ke · trinidadtribune.com · newscentraltv.com · barbadosgazette.com