President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo suggested constitutional changes regarding presidential term limits during a speech in Kisangani on October 23. He labeled the current constitution as outdated and proposed a commission to draft a new one by 2025, while insisting the public should decide on term limits. Critics express concern that this signals an intention to bypass restrictions on presidential terms.
On October 23, Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi delivered a speech in Kisangani, proposing constitutional changes that included revising presidential term limits. Previously, he had committed to upholding constitutional norms. He characterized the current constitution as “outdated” and plans to create a commission to draft a new version by 2025, allowing the public to decide on term limits.
The topic of constitutional amendment in the Democratic Republic of Congo is particularly sensitive, rooted in political history. The present constitution, introduced by late President Joseph Kabila in 2006, includes an article forbidding changes to presidential term limits. Kabila’s extended rule, marked by repression, fuels suspicion surrounding Tshisekedi’s recent proposals, especially since he was once a vocal critic of Kabila’s disregard for constitutional mandates.
The proposal by President Tshisekedi to explore changes to presidential term limits raises concerns about his intentions and the potential for undermining democratic principles in Congo. While he suggests a public decision on the matter, critics fear a backslide into authoritarianism. The nation’s political past serves as a cautionary tale against such constitutional revisions, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding citizens’ rights to genuine electoral processes.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
