The examination of the draft law governing the organization of a referendum has exposed deep divisions between the majority and opposition blocs in Kinshasa.
Tensions reached a peak during the plenary session on May 27, highlighted by the walkout of deputies from the Ensemble pour la République group, the main opposition force. The proposed legislation, spearheaded by Deputy Paul-Gaspard Ngondankoy, seeks to modernize the legal framework for referendums, replacing an outdated system inherited from the 2005 political transition. The bill aims to clarify the conditions under which popular consultations, as permitted by the Constitution, can be held.
Majority defends constitutional reform legitimacy
Proponents of the bill argue that the ruling majority is exercising its constitutional prerogative to initiate legal reforms. Steve Mbikayi, a National Deputy representing the Mont-Amba constituency in Kinshasa and President of the Labour Party (allied with the Union Sacrée de la Nation), firmly rejects opposition interference.
“The power to determine whether constitutional or legal reforms are necessary lies solely with the ruling majority. Nowhere in the Constitution is the opposition granted the authority to initiate or challenge such reforms. Only the Parliament, the Head of State, or a petition signed by over 5,000 Congolese citizens have this right. Anything else is nothing more than political posturing,” Mbikayi stated.
Opposition raises security and constitutional concerns
The opposition, however, views the timing of the referendum debate as highly inappropriate, citing ongoing insecurity in the eastern regions of the country, where armed groups maintain control. Christian Mwando, a key figure in the Ensemble pour la République parliamentary group, warns that proceeding with the reforms could legitimize rebellion and undermine national stability.
“Our parliamentary group calls on the President of the Republic to halt these initiatives, which risk legitimizing rebellion in the eastern part of our country. We urge the Congolese people to reject this dangerous and sinister project that threatens the very survival of our nation. This process is nothing short of a conspiracy against the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” Mwando declared.
Escalating tensions: protests and counter-marches planned
Aimé Boji Sangara, President of the National Assembly, has emphasized that the bill’s sole purpose is to establish a legal framework for direct citizen participation in national decision-making when conditions permit. Despite the opposition’s withdrawal from proceedings, the Political, Administrative, and Legal Affairs Committee declared the draft law admissible, pending amendments.
As parliamentary debates intensify, the political confrontation is spilling into the streets. The opposition has called for a “ville morte” (city shutdown) on June 3, while supporters of the ruling majority are organizing a march in Kinshasa and several provinces on the same day, signaling a high-stakes showdown ahead.
