KINSHASA — The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s main opposition coalition has postponed planned nationwide protests after the African Union (AU) launched a mediation effort aimed at easing political tensions over proposed constitutional reforms.
The opposition alliance, known as the C64 coalition, announced that demonstrations originally planned against President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration will now take place on July 22, following an intervention by Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who currently serves as Chairperson of the African Union.
The coalition had organized the protests to oppose what it described as government efforts to amend the constitution in a way that could remove presidential term limits and potentially allow President Tshisekedi to seek a third term.
Opposition leaders have accused the government of using constitutional reforms to expand presidential powers, warning that such changes could undermine democratic institutions and increase political instability.
The Congolese government has rejected the allegations, saying the constitutional review process is aimed at improving governance, strengthening state institutions, and addressing legal challenges. Officials have insisted that the reforms are not intended to extend the president’s mandate.
Political tensions have grown in recent weeks after parliament approved legislation in June establishing a legal framework for a possible national referendum on constitutional amendments. The decision has sparked debate among political parties, civil society organizations, and citizens over the future direction of the country’s democratic system.
The postponement of the protests represents a temporary reduction in tensions as opposition leaders consider the AU’s mediation initiative. However, disagreements over the proposed constitutional changes remain unresolved.
The African Union has increased efforts to promote dialogue among political actors in the DRC, amid concerns that escalating political disputes could further affect stability in a country already facing major security and humanitarian challenges, particularly in the eastern provinces.
Analysts say the outcome of the AU mediation will depend on whether the government and opposition can reach an agreement on constitutional reforms while maintaining political stability and public confidence in democratic institutions.
