The Constitutional Court’s endorsement of the referendum organization law has reignited fierce debates across the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While the ruling party views this as a legal milestone, opposition groups perceive it as a dangerous step toward constitutional amendment—and they are refusing to back down.
The coalition Article 64 has come out strongly against the decision, warning it paves the way for a third term and threatens national stability. Speaking to the public, spokesperson Prince Epenge delivered a clear message: “We will not back down. We will pool our strength and energy to ensure this law never becomes operational in our country.”
Epenge emphasized the growing anger among citizens, urging them to remain “standing firm, mobilized, and resolved to reject the third term and any form of constitutional fragmentation.”
fears rise in Kinshasa amid political tensions
As opposition leaders met to strategize, residents of Kinshasa expressed deep concerns over the escalation of political unrest. Many worry that renewed protests could disrupt daily life and spiral into violence.
“Will their demands be voiced peacefully?” asked one resident, stressing the need to “avoid any loss of life.”
Another local echoed these fears, warning that “the political climate in the DRC could worsen following this ruling.”
One citizen went further, accusing the government of “fueling instability by deploying individuals to disrupt opposition marches.”
A third resident expressed concern for ordinary citizens, noting that “the population will bear the brunt when demonstrations turn violent.”
experts warn of democratic backsliding
Timo Roujean, an analyst with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, cautioned that swift presidential approval of the law could derail ongoing political dialogue. “If the president signs the text before August 15, the push for dialogue may collapse entirely,” he stated.
Roujean highlighted the growing rhetoric of a “constitutional coup,” suggesting that the Court’s decision could embolden factions advocating armed resistance. “In an already tense environment, this ruling risks reinforcing the narrative that confrontation—not negotiation—is the only path forward.”
The Constitutional Court’s decision has not resolved the standoff. With the presidential camp now armed with a legal framework and the opposition more determined than ever to block constitutional changes, the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s political future.
