Kinshasa youth group sets conditions for constitutional reform in DR Congo

  • Politics

The Congolese youth movement has emerged as a key voice in Kinshasa’s political landscape, demanding that any constitutional reform must first demonstrate clear necessity, build broad national consensus, and proceed only in a climate of political calm. Through a press conference held today, the movement outlined its position, stressing that constitutional changes should never be treated as a political instrument but rather as a solemn national duty.

‘Before taking sides for or against constitutional reform, we must ask the fundamental questions: Why change the Constitution now? What specific problems does this reform aim to solve? How will it improve the lives of all Congolese? Who will benefit most—the Nation or certain political actors? And most importantly, how can we ensure this reform strengthens democracy rather than serving private interests?’ declared Mukenge Totoro, spokesperson for the youth movement.

The organization outlined three uncompromising conditions: first, the reform must address a clearly demonstrated national necessity; second, it must enjoy broad consensus among all political and social forces; and third, it must unfold in a climate of peace and political stability.

‘The youth cannot be reduced to mere electoral reserves or mobilization tools for political interests that are not their own,’ emphasized Totoro. ‘We must rise to become a force for reflection, constructive proposals, citizen oversight, and national transformation.’

Regarding today’s ‘dead city’ protest called by the opposition to reject the constitutional reform project, the youth movement affirmed this as a legitimate right under the Constitution. They urged all parties to prioritize dialogue, ideas, and constructive reforms over confrontation.

Samyr Lukombo