Leaders of Congo’s main opposition parties urged nationwide protests, on Wednesday, against President Felix Tshisekedi’s proposal to draft a new constitution.
Last month, Tshisekedi announced that a national commission would be established next year to draft a new constitution for the Central African country, sparking concerns among the opposition about potential changes to presidential term limits.
Opposition figures, including former President Joseph Kabila and former presidential candidates Martin Fayulu and Moise Katumbi, have called for protests against Tshisekedi’s plans.
The constitution was designed to prevent authoritarian tendencies and ensure democratic transitions of power, said Shadary Ramazani, spokesperson for Kabila’s party, in a joint statement from the opposition.
Tshisekedi, who was re-elected last December in results contested by the opposition, has spent much of his first term seeking legitimacy following a disputed 2018 election while attempting to resolve the armed conflict in the country’s east.
In recent months, Tshisekedi has criticised the current constitution, which was adopted by referendum in 2006, calling it “outdated.” Opposition groups fear that he may seek to alter the limit of two five-year presidential terms to extend his time in office.
Tshisekedi has also condemned what he sees as a slow decision-making process, citing the lengthy period it often takes to form a government after elections, and has pointed to tensions between governors and provincial assemblies as reasons for drafting a new constitution.
He has stated that any change to the presidential term limit should be decided by the people, not by the president.
Experts note that while Tshisekedi has the authority to initiate constitutional changes, they must be approved by 60% of the parliament or passed by referendum.
Frances Ibiefo
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