Congo referendum law sparks heated debate in Kinshasa parliament

The legislative proposal on organizing a referendum has ignited sharp divisions between majority and opposition lawmakers during a recent plenary session in Kinshasa.

The draft legislation, championed by opposition deputy Paul-Gaspard Ngondankoy, seeks to modernize the legal framework for referendums in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It aims to replace outdated provisions from the 2005 political transition and establish clear procedures for constitutional consultations as outlined in the Constitution. Proponents argue the initiative strengthens democratic processes by empowering citizens to directly influence national decisions.

key arguments from the ruling majority

Steve Mbikayi, National Deputy for Mont-Amba and President of the Labour Party (allied with the Union Sacrée de la Nation), defended the reform’s legitimacy:

“The power to determine whether constitutional or legal reforms are necessary belongs to the ruling majority. The Constitution grants this authority exclusively to parliament, the Head of State, or citizens through a petition signed by over 5,000 Congolese. Any opposition to this process represents nothing more than empty posturing.”

opposition condemns the timing

The opposition, represented by Christian Mwando of the Ensemble pour la République parliamentary group, condemned the timing of the referendum debate. In their view, discussing constitutional changes while armed groups control parts of eastern Congo would validate rebel influence and endanger national stability.

“The Ensemble parliamentary group urges the President to halt these initiatives that seek to legitimize rebellion in eastern regions. We call on the Congolese people to reject this dangerous project that threatens our nation’s survival. This process is nothing short of a conspiracy against the DRC’s Constitution.”

street protests and counter-mobilization

National Assembly President Aimé Boji Sangara clarified that the goal remains creating a legal framework for direct citizen participation on national issues when conditions permit. Despite opposition withdrawal from deliberations, the Commission’s report on the draft law was declared admissible with amendments.

Tensions have since spilled into the streets. Opposition factions announced a “dead city” protest for June 3rd, while ruling party supporters plan parallel marches in Kinshasa and several provinces on the same day.