Divisions among DRC churches over constitutional reform

The constitutional reform initiative backed by the government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to stir debate. While revival churches endorse the move, the Catholic church urges caution and the preservation of democratic achievements.

This split comes as the constitution revision process reaches a new milestone, with national deputies approving a referendum bill.

Revival churches back the reform

Revival churches align with the authorities’ view that the 2006 constitution no longer fits the country’s institutional realities.

Archbishop Evariste Ejiba Yamampia, head of the revival churches in Congo, believes this reform could enhance governance and development.

“It’s a matter of our territory’s sovereignty. It’s also about governance. Thirdly, it’s for development and the well-being of our people. It will make a difference because there will be a chance to properly enjoy the country’s wealth. We can eliminate budget-consuming entities,” he explains.

Catholic church calls to preserve democratic gains

The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (Cenco) has yet to take an official stance. However, the Council of the Apostolate of Catholic Laity in Congo (CALCC) reiterates the Catholic church’s commitment to the current constitution, seen as the bedrock of the country’s young democracy.

“The church has always held that the current constitution is the foundation of our young democracy. Moreover, the church has always called for dialogue and wisdom. The Catholic church has regularly reminded those in power that governing is a service. I also acknowledge that the church has always reminded us Catholic laity and all people of goodwill living in the DRC to remain vigilant citizens,” insists Faustin Onombili, president of the CALCC.

A reform contested by the opposition

Beyond the religious divide, the reform project also fuels political tensions. The opposition accuses President Félix Tshisekedi of trying to alter institutional rules to his advantage.

The Article 64 Coalition, which denounces a “constitutional coup d’état,” was set to file a complaint on Tuesday but postponed the move to focus on a sit-in planned for Friday outside parliament.

With a referendum on the horizon, the debate over constitutional reform appears more polarized than ever, pitting those who want institutional adaptation against defenders of the democratic framework established by the 2006 constitution.