Congo: Referendum Law Passed in National Assembly; Opposition Vows Political Storm

The Democratic Republic of Congo's National Assembly has adopted a new law governing referendums, a move that has ignited a political firestorm. Opposition parties accuse the ruling majority of orchestrating the legislation to clear the path for President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office, a prospect they vehemently oppose.

"The opposition announces a political storm," reported Congo Nouveau, highlighting the deep divisions the vote has exposed. The bill, which passed the lower house on June 9 with 348 votes in favor, 2 against, and 1 abstention, now proceeds to the Senate. The opposition argues that the timing of this vote, amidst discussions of a potential constitutional revision, is no coincidence.

In response, five opposition parties have notified authorities of their intention to hold a sit-in protest on June 12 in front of the People's Palace. They cite Article 26 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, and are demanding security for their demonstration. Beyond this initial protest, the opposition coalition plans a series of escalating actions aimed at dissuading Tshisekedi from pursuing what they perceive as unconstitutional ambitions.

While the Assembly's speaker, Aimé Boji Sangara, emphasized the law's importance in strengthening democratic mechanisms and citizen participation, the opposition remains unconvinced. The legislative process itself has seen internal friction, with one deputy suspending his participation, denouncing what he called a "constitutional breach."

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Cinq partis – A.Ch de Jean-Marc Kabund, ECiDé de Martin Fayulu, Ensemble pour la République de Moïse Katumbi, ENVOL de Delly Sesanga et LGD de Matata Ponyo – ont notifié les autorités de Kinshasa pour un sit-in, vendredi 12 juin à 10 h, devant le Palais du Peuple.