Democratic Republic of Congo coalition demands constitutional safeguards

The leadership of the Article 64 Coalition for the Defence of Constitutional Order (C64) has concluded a visit to Bujumbura, Burundi, following high-level discussions with President Évariste Ndayishimiye.

Leaders of the C64, including Martin Fayulu, moved swiftly to clarify their stance after concerns were raised about potential alignment with President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration. They confirmed that the meeting was initiated by the Burundian head of state in his capacity as current chair of the African Union. While expressing openness to dialogue, the coalition insisted on critical preconditions to ensure meaningful engagement.

Uncompromising demands for lasting political stability

The C64 delegation outlined four essential conditions to be met before any substantive political negotiation can proceed. These include the public and permanent abandonment of constitutional reform efforts, the release of all political prisoners, the cessation of politically motivated prosecutions, and the restoration of fundamental civil liberties. For coalition members, these elements are non-negotiable pillars for rebuilding trust and fostering national cohesion.

Rejecting constitutional revision and upholding democratic principles

Central to their concerns is the proposed constitutional amendment currently being advanced by the Tshisekedi government. In light of ongoing conflict and territorial occupation, coalition leaders view this initiative as a critical threat to constitutional order and national sovereignty. They reiterated their resolute opposition to any constitutional changes that could undermine democratic institutions or concentrate power.

The coalition plans to escalate their advocacy on July 22 during a planned peaceful march to the Palais de la Nation, where they will demand the resignation of President Félix Tshisekedi. They accuse him of breaching his constitutional oath and failing to uphold the rule of law amid deepening political and security crises.

Addressing root causes of instability

The C64 leadership emphasized that past peace initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo have repeatedly failed because they overlooked the political dimensions of the crisis. Without addressing governance failures, constitutional violations, and erosions of democratic principles, sustainable stability remains unattainable, they warned.