Dr Congo: constitutional reform sparks national debate amid academic discussions

The Ministry of Higher Education, University, Scientific Research, and Innovations (ESURSI) is hosting a series of “scientific” symposia from Wednesday, June 10, to Friday, June 12. These crucial discussions are taking place concurrently in Kinshasa, Kisangani (Tshopo province), and Lubumbashi (Haut-Katanga province). The initiative, as outlined by the supervising minister, aims to invigorate scientific research and amplify the Congolese university’s engagement in national public discourse, particularly following the recent parliamentary approval of a referendum bill.

Minister Sombo Ayanne Safi Mukuna Marie-Thérèse articulated the primary objective: “Nearly two decades after the 2006 Constitution came into force, these symposia are designed to conduct a thorough scientific analysis of its achievements, limitations, and potential evolutionary paths tailored to the current realities of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The proceedings are expected to culminate in recommendations that can bolster the rule of law, democratic governance, and sustainable national development.”

The sessions are structured around three distinct thematic pillars, operating simultaneously across the chosen cities: Kinshasa focuses on geostrategic issues, Kisangani delves into sociological and environmental aspects, while Lubumbashi addresses industrial and energy transition matters.

The ministry has extended invitations to a diverse group of participants, including academic researchers, constitutional law experts, social science specialists, representatives from academic institutions and research centers, as well as advanced university students. Furthermore, the ministry urges leaders of higher education establishments to widely disseminate this information and mobilize their institutional experts and researchers to ensure the success of this significant national gathering.

Through this endeavor, ESURSI underscores the pivotal role of universities and research centers as vital “laboratories of ideas” and proactive forces contributing to the nation’s progress. Active involvement from the academic community is highly anticipated to guarantee the intellectual rigor of the discussions and the practical relevance of the recommendations generated by the symposia.

The critical issue of constitutional reform, encompassing both revision and fundamental change, has recently surged back into the political spotlight. This debate had previously been overshadowed by the offensive actions of the AFC/M23 rebellion, reportedly backed by Rwanda, which led to significant territorial losses, and by ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the security crisis. Now, it stands at the forefront of the political agenda in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Championed notably by the UDPS, the presidential party and a key component of the ruling Union Sacrée coalition, this discussion continues to fuel intense political tensions.

Both the UDPS and the Union Sacrée de la Nation are officially campaigning for constitutional amendments. However, this proposal does not enjoy universal support. Advocates for revision or outright change, including numerous senior figures within the Union Sacrée, criticize the existing 2006 Constitution. They label it a “trapped Constitution,” deeming it inadequate for the nation’s contemporary challenges. Their arguments highlight concerns related to state governance, the definition of nationality, and the urgent need to adapt the foundational document to Congolese realities. Some also invoke the pursuit of peace or raise questions about the feasibility of the elections scheduled for 2028.

Conversely, the opposition and various other Congolese socio-political forces vehemently reject this initiative. They view it as a perilous undertaking, especially given the backdrop of what they describe as a war of aggression waged by Rwanda through the AFC/M23 rebellion. These groups contend that the Tshisekedi administration, based on what they assess as a negative track record since assuming power, no longer deserves to lead the country. For these opponents, the government’s push for constitutional revision or change is, in fact, a covert attempt to consolidate power and pave the way for a third term for President Félix Tshisekedi, who is currently serving his second and constitutionally final term, which concludes in January 2029.

Within the Democratic Republic of Congo’s dynamic socio-political landscape, the constitutional reform debate has catalyzed the formation of two distinct movements. On one side stands the Coalition Article 64 pour la Défense de l’Ordre Constitutionnel (C64), committed to preserving the existing constitutional order. On the other side is the Coalition des Congolais pour le Changement de la Constitution (C4), advocating for fundamental constitutional change. Each coalition asserts significant popular backing in its pursuit of its stated objectives.