DRC Police Disperse Rally Against Constitutional Term-Limit Reforms
The C64 coalition organised the demonstration outside parliament, citing concerns that the bill could enable the president to bypass constitutional two-term limits during periods of state dysfunction.
Police in Kinshasa used tear gas to disperse a rally organised by the C64 coalition on Friday, following violent clashes between opposition supporters and pro-government activists. The demonstration, held outside parliament, was staged to protest a proposed law that could permit President Felix Tshisekedi to remain in power beyond the constitutional two-term limit.
Prominent opposition leader Martin Fayulu was injured during the confrontation. Video footage circulated showing Fayulu with blood around his eyes and on his shirt as supporters assisted him. Fellow opposition figure Prince Epenge was also reported to have sustained minor injuries during the unrest.
The proposed bill, currently under consideration in the National Assembly, would allow the president to amend term limits in cases of "major dysfunction" that paralyses state institutions. This legislative move comes despite the current constitution prohibiting any revision of presidential term limits. President Tshisekedi, 62, recently stated he would agree to a third term "if the people wish it" following a referendum on constitutional reform.
The C64 coalition, formed in May, unites main opposition parties that have historically been divided. The group has described the proposed reforms as a "serious threat" to the country’s stability, framing the president’s apparent bid to extend his tenure as a move that could exacerbate existing political tensions.
The unrest occurs against a backdrop of significant challenges for the Democratic Republic of Congo. The nation is simultaneously managing a new Ebola outbreak and an escalation of the decades-long conflict involving Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. President Tshisekedi’s current five-year term is scheduled to conclude in 2028.
