Congo politics: Tshisekedi bows to pressure as opposition coalition holds firm
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, President Félix Tshisekedi has sent the referendum bill back to Parliament for a second review, just as the ultimatum from the Article 64 coalition nears its deadline. The move comes after the Constitutional Court confirmed the bill’s compliance with the Constitution, albeit with reservations. The opposition alliance, alongside dozens of civil society groups, had demanded that the president abandon his constitutional reform plans and veto the referendum bill by August 15, while also initiating a national dialogue. Yet, as the deadline looms, no date has been set for such discussions.
Tshisekedi’s tactical retreat amidst mounting pressure
Contrary to expectations that the referendum bill would automatically become law due to the president’s failure to sign it within 15 days, as stipulated by the Congolese Constitution, Tshisekedi has chosen to return the document to Parliament. This decision aims to address the Constitutional Court’s observations before proceeding. While analysts view this as a strategic retreat, it does not signal an abandonment of his efforts to secure a path to remain in power beyond 2028, when his second term concludes.
Professor Bob Kabamba, a political scientist at the University of Liège in Belgium, highlights the pressures Tshisekedi faces—not only from opposition groups but also from regional stakeholders. “The president’s decision reflects a tactical withdrawal, but it does not mean he will abandon his ambitions to extend his rule beyond 2028,” Kabamba explains. “The combination of internal and external pressures, coupled with consultations, has forced Tshisekedi to reconsider his approach.”
Article 64 coalition vows continued resistance
The C64 coalition has welcomed the bill’s return to Parliament but remains resolute in its demands. With the August 15 deadline approaching, the alliance is preparing a series of decisive actions, though specific details have not been disclosed. Franklin Tshiamala, secretary-general of Leadership for Governance and Development (LGD) and a close ally of former Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo, warns of significant measures to follow. “At midnight on August 15, we will confirm that nothing has been done. We will unveil decisive operations from our C64 laboratory to compel this regime—one that has stripped us of our freedoms and seeks to seize our national sovereignty—to reconsider its path,” he declares.
Power and opposition dig in their heels
From the government’s perspective, the referendum process is framed as a legitimate political and institutional endeavor. The ultimatum issued by the C64 is dismissed as an attempt to dictate the president’s agenda. Adolphe Amisi Makutano, a senior member of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), the party led by President Tshisekedi, dismisses the coalition’s demands. “This is their ultimatum, crafted perhaps to satisfy external backers. The Republic continues to function as normal,” he asserts.
The standoff between the government and the opposition coalition shows no signs of easing. As the August 15 deadline passes, the Democratic Republic of the Congo may enter a new and volatile chapter in its political landscape.
