Congo’s Catholic Church Opposes Proposed Constitutional Changes to Extend Presidential Term
The Catholic Church in the DRC, through Monsignor Donatien Nshole, opposes President Tshisekedi’s constitutional amendment proposal aimed at extending presidential term limits. CENCO calls for a general mobilization against this initiative, stressing the need for the government to prioritize socio-economic recovery rather than constitutional changes, especially in light of escalating political tensions and ongoing social unrest in the country.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), represented by its secretary general Monsignor Donatien Nshole, has strongly denounced President Félix Tshisekedi’s initiative to amend the Constitution to extend presidential term limits. Msgr. Nshole characterizes the proposal as a “dangerous project” that threatens national unity and exacerbates the country’s precarious socio-economic conditions. He asserts that the government should prioritize socio-economic recovery instead of pursuing constitutional changes, which would require extensive public resources better allocated to essential services. Furthermore, CENCO has declared a call for “general mobilization” among the populace to resist this amendment and uphold the existing constitutional framework that has historically supported the nation’s stability. This initiative reflects a broader concern over escalating political tensions and social unrest within the DRC as public stakeholders face rising discontent amidst surging strikes in various sectors. CENCO underscores the necessity of inclusive consultations among key political actors to address critical issues of security and governance effectively.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been grappling with political instability and socio-economic difficulties for years. The 2006 Constitution forbids alterations to presidential term limits, a stipulation that former President Joseph Kabila flouted during his tenure. Now, President Tshisekedi’s proposal to revise the Constitution, with the aim of establishing a commission to draft reforms by 2025 and giving citizens a say on term limits, has incited significant controversy. CENCO, the Catholic Church’s representative body, holds that instead of focusing on constitutional amendments, the government should channel its efforts towards improving dire socio-economic conditions and avoiding further fracturing of national cohesion. The bishops advocate for stability and better governance as the foundations for a more prosperous society.
The current situation in the DRC demonstrates a potential clash between constitutional integrity and the desires of the ruling government to alter power dynamics for prolonged governance. The Catholic Church’s intervention serves as a reminder of the importance of public discourse and adherence to democratic principles. As socio-political tensions rise, it is crucial to emphasize the need for unity and cooperative governance to ensure the nation’s stability and well-being.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
