Congo referendum law sparks sovereignty debate

Two decades after the landmark 2005 referendum law, lawmakers have approved fresh legislation to regulate the organization of national votes, particularly when constitutional reforms are on the table.

While the new law aims to reinforce popular sovereignty, it has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures who argue it paves the way for President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third consecutive term. Supporters, however, view the legislation as a safeguard for democratic expression, though some legal experts warn it may clash with the existing constitutional framework.

Among those defending the reform is Kinshasa-based jurist Maria Eloyi, who argues that constitutional amendments must reflect the will of the people through a referendum. “The Constitution is the people’s voice. Any change must go through this process, which embodies their will. This isn’t about political maneuvering—some articles in our Constitution genuinely need updating.”

public concerns overshadowed by political debates

Not everyone shares this enthusiasm. Placide Lukeka, a resident of Kinshasa, believes the timing is misplaced. “I’ve always wanted constitutional reform, not because of political games but because a new Republic could bring real progress. But with elections looming, why prioritize this now instead of addressing urgent issues? Where were they when the Constitution could have been changed earlier?”

Ange Aloki, another resident, echoes this skepticism. “I don’t support this distraction. Other crises demand attention. Why spend so much energy on this two years before elections? Where were they all this time?”

legal challenges ahead

The debate extends beyond politics into legal territory. Constitutional lawyer Godefroy Mwanabwato believes the new law may face hurdles if challenged before the Constitutional Court, which could strike down provisions exceeding the legislature’s authority to regulate referendums. “The Court must remove any clauses that overstep the legislature’s role in managing referendum processes.”

The opposition has taken a firm stance, boycotting parliamentary sessions on the bill and organizing protests, including a city-wide shutdown on June 3 and a sit-in scheduled for June 13.

As the political and legal battles intensify, the future of Congo’s referendum law—and its implications for popular sovereignty—remains uncertain.