DRC: 'Ensemble pour la République' opposes electoral cycle extension

The political landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo is once again at a critical juncture, with the party 'Ensemble pour la République' taking a strong stance against any perceived attempts to undermine the constitutional order. Following a press conference by the Head of State, the party, through its director of cabinet Olivier Kamitatu, has unequivocally declared its opposition to any extension of the electoral cycle, emphasizing that President Félix Tshisekedi is nearing the end of his constitutionally mandated term.

“

We will not accept any slippage and we will not tolerate any revision. Mr. Félix Tshisekedi must understand that he is coming to the end of his last term. In 2028, a new era will open.

'Ensemble pour la République' views any move towards a constitutional revision by referendum as a direct challenge to the Congolese people's sovereignty and a potential prelude to a prolonged presidency. Kamitatu's strong words, describing such an endeavor as a "declaration of war on the Congolese people," highlight the deep divisions and mistrust that characterize the current political climate. The party insists on the inviolability of Article 220 of the Constitution, which limits presidential terms, rejecting any interpretation that seeks to circumvent these provisions.

“

any desire for prolonged presidency would constitute, according to his terms, 'a declaration of war on the Congolese people'.

Furthermore, the party refutes the notion that the constitution hinders development or peace, particularly in the eastern regions. Instead, it points to ineffective command structures and the diversion of military funds as the true obstacles. 'Ensemble pour la République' is not only mobilizing domestic political forces to form a united front for resistance but is also appealing to the international community not to become "silent accomplices" in what it perceives as a slide towards dictatorship. From Kinshasa's perspective, the stability of the entire Central African region hinges on the respect for democratic alternation in the DRC, making this constitutional debate a matter of national and regional urgency.

“

It is not Article 220 that prevents the liberation of the East of the DRC, but rather the absence of an effective chain of command and the diversion of funds intended for military operations.