DRC: 65 Civil Society Groups Urge President Tshisekedi to Drop Referendum Plan

Sixty-five Congolese civil society organizations have called on President Felix Tshisekedi to abandon the idea of a referendum and refrain from enacting the law that would organize it. In a memorandum sent to the head of state and key national institutions, the groups stated that the current security, social, and economic climate does not support holding such a vote.

Signatories, including "Non au changement de la Constitution" and LUCHA-RDC, believe national priorities should focus on resolving pressing issues. These include the ongoing insecurity in eastern Congo, the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of internally displaced people, and the socio-economic hardships faced by the population.

The organizations argue that refusing to enact the referendum law would be a "responsible political act" aimed at preserving civil peace and national unity. They contend that such a decision would not undermine institutional authority but would instead demonstrate a commitment to national stability during a sensitive period. Conversely, they fear that enacting the law could be perceived by some as a step toward constitutional change, potentially fueling political tensions and jeopardizing peace prospects.

While the civil society groups urge the president to focus on more urgent national challenges, the ruling party, the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), holds a different view. The UDPS believes a legal framework for a referendum is necessary to fill a legal void, clarify popular sovereignty mechanisms, and strengthen the country's legal framework. The debate over the referendum continues to divide public opinion in the DRC amid significant security, economic, and social challenges.