DR Congo opposition rally against proposed law turns violent
L'essentiel
- Opposition coalition C64 organised a rally in Kinshasa against a proposed law that could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to extend his term.
- The demonstration turned violent with clashes between opposition and pro-government activists, and police used tear gas.
- Opposition leader Martin Fayulu was among those injured.
Résumé généré par IA
Pourquoi c'est important
A proposed law in the Democratic Republic of Congo could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to stay in power beyond his two-term limit, sparking opposition. The country is already facing multiple crises, including an Ebola outbreak and conflict with M23 rebels.
Rival political groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo clashed during a rally against a proposed law that could see President Felix Tshisekedi stay in power beyond his two-term limit.
The demonstration outside parliament in the capital Kinshasa on Friday, organised by the opposition coalition C64, was broken up by police firing tear gas after fighting involving pro-government activists, reported AFP.
Among those injured was prominent opposition leader Martin Fayulu, with video showing him with blood around his eyes and shirt as supporters came to his aid. Fellow opposition figure Prince Epenge was also slightly injured, reported AFP.
The confrontation comes as the DRC faces multiple crises, including the latest Ebola outbreak and an escalation of the decades-long conflict with the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.
An apparent bid by Tshisekedi to stay in office longer has generated further unrest. His second five-year term as president is due to end in 2028.
The 62-year-old president recently declared that he would agree to lead the conflict-plagued country for a third term “if the people wish it” after a referendum on reforming the constitution.
While the DRC’s constitution bars any revision of presidential term limits, a bill under consideration in the National Assembly would allow the president to amend those provisions in the event of a “major dysfunction” that paralyses state institutions, potentially following a referendum.
The main opposition parties, which have been divided in recent years, joined forces in May under the C64 banner to oppose what they describe as an attempt by Tshisekedi to remain in power.
The coalition has called the proposed changes a “serious threat” to the country’s stability.
À surveiller
Perspective IA — des possibilités, pas des certitudes
Further protests and political unrest are likely if the proposed law progresses.
Très probable · En quelques semaines
President Tshisekedi may call for a referendum on constitutional reform.
Probable · En quelques mois
Questions ouvertes
- Will the proposed law pass the National Assembly?
- What is the public's stance on a potential referendum for a third term?
- How will the international community respond to further political instability?
