The Constitutional Court’s endorsement of the referendum framework has reignited political tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). While the government views the decision as a legal milestone, opposition leaders condemn it as a dangerous overreach and vow to escalate their protests.

The Article 64 coalition, a key opposition bloc, argues that the ruling paves the way for constitutional amendments they strongly oppose. Their spokesperson, Prince Epenge, has urged citizens to remain steadfast in their resistance, declaring, “We will not back down. We will pool our strength and energy to ensure this law never takes effect in our country.”

Epenge emphasized the public’s anger, urging citizens to “stand firm, remain mobilized, and firmly reject any third term ambitions or attempts to divide the nation.”

Kinshasa residents voice concerns over escalating tensions

As coalition leaders gathered Wednesday evening to strategize their next moves, residents in Kinshasa expressed growing apprehension about the potential for renewed unrest. Many fear that any protests could disrupt daily life and spiral into violence.

One resident questioned, “Will their methods of protest remain peaceful?” He stressed the need to “avoid any loss of life.”

Another resident echoed these concerns, admitting, “I worry that the political climate in the DRC could deteriorate further following this decision.”

A third resident pointed a finger at the ruling power, stating, “The real troublemaker right now is the current administration. They often deploy individuals to disrupt opposition marches.”

The final resident interviewed expressed fear for “ordinary citizens, who will bear the brunt when protests erupt.”

Political dialogue at risk

Timo Roujean, an analyst at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, warns that swift presidential approval of the law could harden political divisions. He cautions that if President Félix Tshisekedi signs the text before August 15, efforts toward political dialogue may collapse entirely.

Roujean highlighted the increasingly tense rhetoric, noting that discussions about “constitutional coups” are growing louder. He warned that the Constitutional Court’s decision could embolden factions advocating for armed resistance as the only means to oppose the government.

The Court’s decision has not resolved the impasse. With the presidential camp now armed with a legal framework and an opposition determined to block any constitutional reforms, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the future of the DRC’s political crisis.