DRC President Advocates for Constitutional Revision in Effort to Address Governance Challenges

President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has announced plans to establish a commission to revise the Constitution, citing its inadequacies in relation to the country’s political realities. This move follows internal coalition disputes, particularly regarding the delayed formation of a government, and has met with opposition concerns pertaining to potential power retention strategies. The existing Constitution, adopted in 2006, has come under scrutiny as calls for governmental reform grow stronger.

In a recent address to supporters in Kisangani, President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo announced his intent to establish a commission next year aimed at revising the nation’s Constitution. He articulated that the existing Constitution exhibits “weaknesses” and is not adequately aligned with the country’s current circumstances. President Tshisekedi, who is in his second and final term as per the 2006 Constitution, highlighted ongoing political fragmentation, citing motives driven by “selfish interests” as reasons for delays in the formation of the government and provincial assemblies. The announcement comes in the context of an extended delay in government inauguration, which took nearly six months following the president’s re-election. This postponement arose from disputes within the ruling coalition, as various political parties sought representation in the new government. Judith Suminwa Tuluka made history as the country’s first female Prime Minister, leading a cabinet of over 50 ministers. The call for constitutional revision has been a recurring theme within the ruling coalition. The Secretary-General of the president’s party, the UDPS, stated in early October that the late party leader Etienne Tshisekedi had previously advocated for constitutional changes. Nonetheless, the proposal has incited division among the populace, with opposition leaders expressing concerns that the initiative might be a strategic maneuver for President Tshisekedi to maintain power. In response to these allegations, the president asserted, “a change regarding the presidential term” is not tied to his ambitions but rather pertains to the concerns of the Congolese people. The 2006 Constitution, the DRC’s third fundamental law, was adopted through a national referendum and was one of the prominent achievements of the 2003 government of national unity. It was last revised in 2011, and discussions regarding changes have gained intensified attention in recent weeks.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has a complex political landscape often marred by power struggles and governmental inefficiencies. Under the 2006 Constitution, which was established during a period of national reconciliation, influential calls for revision stem from both the ruling coalition and various political entities within the country. President Felix Tshisekedi’s announcement for a constitutional review reflects a broader sentiment of inadequacies in current governance, particularly regarding delays and political responsiveness that have been perceived as hindered by self-interest. Given the polarized nature of Congolese politics, any discussions about constitutional changes are likely to evoke significant debate among citizens and leaders alike, especially concerning the potential implications for presidential term limits.

In conclusion, President Felix Tshisekedi’s proposal to form a commission for constitutional revision highlights ongoing political challenges in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly issues of representation and governance effectiveness. While the initiative aims to address the shortcomings of the current Constitution, it has also stirred apprehensions among opposition figures regarding the motivation behind such changes. As the nation navigates this critical juncture, the outcome of these discussions will undoubtedly shape the DRC’s political landscape in the years to come.

Original Source: www.africanews.com