Amanze Chinonye
Police in the Democratic Republic of Congo fired tear gas and warning shots on Tuesday to disperse opposition-led demonstrations against a proposed constitutional rewrite that critics say could allow President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term.
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Hundreds gathered in Kinshasa and other cities despite restrictions on public gatherings linked to an Ebola outbreak. The main demonstration began peacefully before clashes erupted between protesters and pro-government supporters.
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The protests were organised by Coalition Article 64, an opposition alliance that includes former presidential candidates Martin Fayulu, Moise Katumbi and Delly Sesanga. The group says the proposed changes could remove the current two-term presidential limit and enable Tshisekedi to remain in office beyond 2028.
Reuters witnesses said some protesters threw stones and brandished machetes in Kinshasa. Security forces responded with tear gas and warning shots. Gatherings were also reported in Lubumbashi, Kananga, Kindu and Bandundu, with police disrupting some of them.
The Senate adopted in June 2026 a bill that could lead to a referendum on a new constitution. Under the existing constitution, presidents can serve a maximum of two five-year terms.
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Tshisekedi, who has been president since 2019 and re-elected in 2023, has said he would consider another term if voters approve constitutional changes in a referendum. His position has fuelled opposition concerns over the proposed rewrite.
Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya accused the opposition of disrupting public activities and spreading misinformation, while saying demonstrations were permitted when conducted lawfully, the Associated Press reported. Fayulu accused security forces of using political militias and condemned the police response.
The political dispute comes as Congo faces an Ebola outbreak and continued fighting in its eastern provinces, where the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has seized large areas of territory.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
