Congo political crisis escalates as opposition vows protests

The Constitutional Court’s endorsement of the referendum law has reignited fierce debates in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, fueling concerns over a potential constitutional overhaul.

Opposition factions, particularly the Article 64 coalition, have condemned the ruling, viewing it as a dangerous precedent that could pave the way for constitutional amendments. Prince Epenge, a prominent spokesperson for the coalition, has urged citizens to remain mobilized. “We will not back down. We are pooling our strength and resolve to ensure this law never takes effect in our country,” he declared.

Epenge emphasized the public’s growing frustration, urging people to “stand firm, remain united, and reject both a third term and any attempts at division.”

Kinshasa residents voice growing apprehension

As the Article 64 coalition convened to strategize its next moves, residents in Kinshasa expressed deep unease about the escalating political tensions. Many fear that renewed protests could disrupt daily life and spiral into violence.

“Will their demands be voiced peacefully?” questioned one resident, stressing the need to “avoid any loss of life.”

Another resident echoed these concerns, warning that “the political climate in the DRC could further deteriorate following this decision.”

“Those sowing chaos right now are the ones in power,” alleged one local, accusing authorities of manipulating events to undermine opposition marches. “The real victims will be ordinary citizens when protests erupt,” added another.

Dialogue at risk amid hardening stances

Timo Roujean, an analyst with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, cautioned that swift presidential approval of the law could severely undermine ongoing political dialogue efforts. “If the president signs this law before August 15, it would effectively nullify any progress toward reconciliation,” he noted.

Roujean highlighted the growing rhetoric around a “constitutional coup,” warning that the court’s decision could embolden factions advocating armed resistance. “In this already tense environment, the ruling risks reinforcing the narrative that confrontation, not negotiation, is the only path forward,” he explained.

With the presidential camp now armed with a legal framework and an opposition unwilling to concede, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the crisis deepens or finds a resolution.