The Constitutional Court’s endorsement of the referendum law has intensified political tensions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While authorities view this as a procedural milestone, opposition factions perceive it as a dangerous step toward constitutional reform, sparking renewed calls for resistance.

The coalition Article 64 has categorically rejected the ruling, warning that it paves the way for constitutional amendments that could extend presidential terms. Prince Epenge, a spokesperson for the coalition, has urged citizens to remain vigilant.

“We will not back down. We will channel all our strength and energy to ensure this law never takes effect in our country,” he declared.

“The people are angry. They must stand firm, united, and resolute in rejecting a third term and any attempts at political fragmentation,” he added.

Kinshasa residents voice growing concerns over escalating tensions

As coalition leaders convened in Kinshasa to strategize their next moves, local residents expressed fears that renewed protests could disrupt daily life and escalate into violence.

“Will their demands be pursued peacefully?” questioned one resident, emphasizing the need to “avoid any loss of life.”

Another resident echoed these concerns, stating, “I worry the political climate here in the DRC could spiral out of control following this decision.”

Some citizens also accused authorities of stoking instability by deploying individuals to disrupt opposition marches.

“The real troublemakers are those in power. They often deploy agents to sabotage opposition protests,” one resident alleged.

A third resident expressed concern for ordinary citizens, noting, “It’s the people who will suffer most when protests turn violent.”

Constitutional amendments threaten political dialogue

Timo Roujean, an analyst with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, warned that swift presidential approval of the law could derail ongoing efforts to foster political dialogue. He cautioned that if President Félix Tshisekedi signs the text before August 15, it could undermine peace initiatives and embolden factions advocating for armed resistance.

“If the law is enacted before mid-August, the dialogue process could collapse entirely,” he stated, adding that “in an increasingly tense climate, where talk of a constitutional coup already circulates, this decision risks fueling the narrative that armed opposition is the only way to challenge the government.”

The Constitutional Court’s ruling has not resolved the dispute. With the presidential camp now equipped with a legal framework and an opposition determined to block constitutional reforms, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the DRC’s political future.