DRC Opposition Calls for Mass Protest and Tshisekedi’s Resignation

The Democratic Republic of Congo

The opposition leaders in the DRC have called for a mass protest and Tshisekedi’s resignation, citing constitutional changes that could allow him to run for a third term.

A meeting of the C64 opposition group in Kinshasa announced that it would not back down and urged citizens to organize a massive demonstration on July 22 to demand Tshisekedi’s departure.

‘This march will say no to unconstitutional coup, no to confiscation of popular sovereignty, no to endless war and bad governance,’ said Jean-Marc Kabund, leader of the opposition. ‘It will say yes to respect for the constitution, yes to peace, justice, and democratic transfer of power.’ The demonstration is set to take place on July 22.

Opposition leaders claim that Tshisekedi’s proposed constitutional changes are a threat to democracy and that he has betrayed his oath of office. The government says it will not engage in dialogue until Tshisekedi renounces his plans for the constitutional changes.

The Opposition’s Concerns

Tensions between the government and opposition have been escalating since the parliament, dominated by the ruling party, approved a proposal to extend Tshisekedi’s term in office.

‘It cannot be a matter of suspending civic actions or engaging in dialogue until M. Félix Tshiseki doesn’t renounce his project for constitutional reform, which is dividing the nation and threatening the country with fragmentation,’ said Jean-Marc Kabund.

Tshisekedi’s Future

Tshisekedi has been in power since 2019 and his current term ends in 2028. He has not yet decided whether to promote the proposed constitutional changes.