DRC Senator decries international silence on 'constitutional coup'

Congolese Senator Salomon Idi Kalonda has denounced the international community's silence regarding what he describes as an ongoing "constitutional coup" in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He differentiates between overt military takeovers and more insidious constitutional maneuvers, asserting that both ultimately serve to confiscate the sovereign power of the people.

Speaking at a parliamentary forum on intelligence and security in Africa held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on July 10, 2026, Idi Kalonda explained the two forms of coups. Military coups are brutal and evident, marked by the overthrow of a sitting regime, and often draw condemnation and sanctions from international organizations. In contrast, he characterized the constitutional coup as more sophisticated and covert, frequently benefiting from apparent complacency.

The senator specifically criticized the "silence of the international community" concerning contested constitutional reforms across the continent, citing the ongoing debate in the DRC about potential changes to its constitution. He argued that the credibility of elections hinges on citizens' trust in institutions, a trust he believes is eroded by the lack of independence in electoral commissions, opaque results tabulation, and the politicization of intelligence services.

Kalonda also highlighted new forms of electoral fraud, such as the disqualification of candidates before elections and internet shutdowns during results announcements. To bolster election integrity, he proposed the creation of an African electoral monitoring unit, the development of secure digital tools, transparent electoral audits, and a parliamentary observation mechanism covering the entire electoral process. He concluded that credible elections are essential for stability, development, and peace in Africa.