Catholic Church in DR Congo stands against constitutional amendments

While the pushback against revising the nation’s laws was previously led by political opponents, the influential Catholic Church has now thrown its weight behind the movement. The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (Cenco) issued a formal statement on Saturday, June 20, expressing its firm opposition to altering the Constitution established on February 18, 2006.

Abbé Donatien Nshole, the secretary general of Cenco, argued that the government’s proposed reforms lack necessity, urgency, and appropriateness at this time.

“We call upon the clergy and pastoral agents to widely share this message and awaken the consciences of our faithful and all people of good will. It is essential to resist any manipulation intended to change the Constitution. We reserve the right to return to you with specific actions to be taken when the time is right,” the statement noted.

The Catholic Church says no to constitutional changes

The bishops appear determined to influence the political landscape, cautioning that such initiatives could further weaken a nation already grappling with persistent insecurity in the East and significant social unrest.

Public opinion on the streets of Kinshasa remains divided. Some citizens view the debate through the lens of the presidency. “Many people focus on the President, thinking only of another term. However, we should consider the broader public interest, as he is working for the people,” one young woman remarked.

Others point to the current crisis as a reason to avoid legal overhauls. “If we look closely, the country is in a fragile state. We have a state of siege and ongoing conflict in the East. It is hard to justify changing the Constitution under these specific circumstances,” another resident observed.

A different perspective came from a young man who emphasized the need for modern legal frameworks. “The Constitution must help us on the international stage. If our laws are not adapted, we may struggle to maintain our status as a sovereign state capable of establishing treaties,” he explained.

The influence of Cenco

Although Cenco lacks the formal institutional power to stop a reform, its social, political, and diplomatic reach is immense. Political scientist Christian Moleka highlights this unique position.

“The Catholic Church is mobilizing, but there is a new dynamic with the involvement of other denominations, such as the Revival churches. The Catholic Church’s advantage lies in its ability to organize across the entire country and its significant diplomatic influence. Its voice resonates not just in the streets of Kinshasa but also on the international stage,” Moleka stated.

As the debate heats up, the opposition has scheduled street demonstrations for July 8, calling for the resignation of President Félix Tshisekedi. In response, the secretary general of the ruling UDPS party has accused the opposition of attempting to incite a popular uprising throughout the Democratic Republic of Congo.