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๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฉ DR Congo /Elections & Politics

Congolese group warns of rising intolerance amid constitutional debate

From Radio Okapi · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A Congolese civil society group, DYNAP, has raised concerns about rising intolerance and violence surrounding discussions of a potential constitutional revision.
  • The group reported that individuals are attempting to silence dissent, with threats directed at members of the Catholic Church, civil society actors, and political opponents.
  • DYNAP urged respect for democratic principles and called on the President to foster political calm and national unity through dialogue and tolerance.

The Dynamique dโ€™acteurs pour les questions de la patrie (DYNAP) has voiced alarm over increasing intolerance and violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The civil society group highlighted a rise in divisive rhetoric and actions that threaten social cohesion, particularly amid discussions about amending the constitution.

DYNAP stated that organized groups are actively suppressing freedom of expression for those who disagree with the proposed constitutional changes. The organization specifically condemned threats made against Catholic Church members, civil society leaders, and political opposition figures, identifying their sole "offense" as expressing dissent.

"The DYNAP reminds that dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect are indispensable for national cohesion," said Sylvano Safari, a member of the group. He urged the President of the Republic to use his wisdom and moral authority to calm the political climate and strengthen national unity. DYNAP also called on human rights organizations and civil society to remain vigilant in protecting fundamental freedoms, emphasizing that national unity is built through justice and respect for differences, not intimidation or violence.

The DYNAP reminds that dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect are indispensable for national cohesion. We call on the President of the Republic to use his wisdom and moral authority to foster the appeasement of the political climate and strengthen national unity.

โ€” Sylvano SafariA member of DYNAP explaining the group's stance on national unity and political dialogue.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Radio Okapi in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.