Cardinal Besungu Criticizes Government’s Focus on Constitutional Amendments

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu has criticized the Congolese government for prioritizing constitutional amendments over pressing youth issues, questioning the relevance of such changes in securing futures for young people. His remarks during a Youth Day Mass urged the population to remain hopeful and engaged, asserting the importance of addressing corruption and injustice rather than political maneuvering. This commentary comes amid controversy over President Tshisekedi’s plan to amend the constitution, particularly to extend presidential term limits, provoking opposition protests and raising concerns over governance priorities.

In Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu has expressed serious concern regarding the Congolese government’s focus on constitutional amendments, particularly the proposed changes that would allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third presidential term. In a recent homily delivered during the diocesan Youth Day Mass, Cardinal Ambongo lamented the prioritization of constitutional discourse over addressing urgent needs faced by the youths in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He emphasized the disconnection between government actions and the real issues affecting young people, questioning the efficacy of a constitutional change in securing their futures, such as employment opportunities after education.

The Cardinal called upon the youth to actively participate in reforms and to remain hopeful in their capacity to foster a better future for their nation, asserting, “Congo is your country. If you allow yourselves to become discouraged, no one else will take better care of it than you.” Cardinal Ambongo urged the young Congolese to resist empty promises and instead, to follow the teachings of Christ, advocating for justice, truth, and peace against corruption and deception. This statement comes amidst rising tensions regarding President Tshisekedi’s announcement to amend the constitution, an issue that has incited opposition protests and heightened scrutiny of the government’s priorities in the face of rampant youth disenfranchisement, particularly concerning education and job opportunities.

The recent comments made by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu bring to light the growing frustrations among the youth of the Democratic Republic of Congo regarding their representation and opportunities. Amidst calls for constitutional reform led by President Félix Tshisekedi, particularly the proposed abolition of the two-term limit for the presidency, a significant portion of the population feels their immediate challenges are being overlooked. Youth unemployment and a lack of support for young people’s aspirations remain widely unaddressed within the political discourse, raising questions about the priority of constitutional revisions versus the pressing needs of society.

In conclusion, Cardinal Ambongo’s statements reflect a broader discontent with the Congolese government’s approach to governance amidst rising constitutional amendment debates. As he advocates for the youth to take charge of their nation’s future, his call highlights the need for leaders to prioritize the needs of their constituents over political ambitions. The disconnect between government actions and the realities faced by young Congolese exemplifies the critical crossroads at which the DRC currently stands, balancing constitutional integrity with the fundamental rights and opportunities of its youth.

Original Source: www.fides.org