Former President Joseph Kabila is mobilizing Congolese citizens to prevent President Félix Tshisekedi’s initiative to revise the Constitution, asserting it threatens the nation’s stability and sovereignty. The FCC has characterized the planned revision as a distraction from the president’s failures in ensuring security, reminiscent of Kabila’s past attempts to alter the Constitution amidst public opposition.
Joseph Kabila, the former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has initiated efforts to mobilize the populace to thwart the incumbent President Félix Tshisekedi’s initiative for a constitutional review. Kabila’s political group, the Common Front for the Congo (FCC), has called upon citizens to engage in actions aimed at obstructing this revision process, asserting that the people must “rise up” to safeguard their rights, freedoms, and sovereignty. In stark contrast, President Tshisekedi defended the current constitution, asserting that it was crafted not by foreign influences but by Congolese individuals reflecting the nation’s diverse identity. The FCC, however, accuses Tshisekedi of orchestrating a “political machination” designed to distract from his shortcomings, notably in maintaining national security. They believe that any attempt to revise the Constitution poses a significant threat to the peace, unity, and stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a historical context, Kabila previously sought to modify this Constitution in 2015 but was compelled to retreat amidst widespread public and ecclesiastical opposition. This backdrop of political maneuvering signals a troubling tension within Congolese politics concerning governance and constitutional integrity.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has a tumultuous political history characterized by significant constitutional changes and widespread public unrest. President Joseph Kabila, who served from 2001 to 2019, faced substantial backlash during an attempt to amend the constitution in 2015. This change sought to extend presidential term limits, leading to protests and opposition from various civil groups, including religious institutions. Currently, under President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration, discussions around the constitution’s revision have resurfaced, invoking Kabila’s concerns regarding national sovereignty and stability. The FCC party, which Kabila leads, is heavily invested in preserving the existing constitutional framework as a means of safeguarding democratic principles in the DRC.
In summary, former President Joseph Kabila is actively advocating against the revision of the Constitution proposed by current President Félix Tshisekedi, asserting that it poses risks to the democratic rights of the Congolese people and national stability. The FCC’s mobilization effort underscores a clear divide in contemporary Congolese politics regarding constitutional governance and the legitimacy of political authority.
Original Source: allafrica.com
