DRC constitutional reform must prioritize national consensus and human rights
During an interactive dialogue at the 62nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, Abdoul Aziz Thioye, Deputy Director of the Global Operations Division at the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, delivered a critical message regarding the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s constitutional reform process.
Speaking on behalf of UN High Commissioner Volker Türk, Thioye emphasized that any constitutional reform must be grounded in a national consensus to safeguard social cohesion. This call comes at a time when political tensions in Kinshasa have escalated, particularly following recent opposition-led protests against proposed constitutional changes.
Human rights commitments must guide reforms
The UN official underscored the importance of aligning constitutional reforms with the country’s international human rights obligations. He warned that excluding key stakeholders from the process could have severe repercussions for national unity.
“Any constitutional reform process must be built on a national consensus and respect the country’s commitments to human rights. All voices must be heard and considered; otherwise, social cohesion could face serious consequences,” Thioye stated.
UN support in combating impunity
Thioye also highlighted the UN’s ongoing efforts to combat impunity in the DRC, despite financial constraints and staffing reductions. Since the last update to the Human Rights Council, the UN Joint Human Rights Office (BCNUDH) has supported authorities in conducting three major investigations into grave human rights violations, resulting in the conviction of 109 individuals.
The BCNUDH has additionally provided critical support to 150 human rights defenders, journalists, and their families, including psychological, legal, and financial assistance, as well as relocation measures where necessary.
“Since our last update, we have supported authorities in organizing three judicial inquiries into grave human rights violations and five mobile court sessions, leading to 109 convictions. We have also supported 150 human rights defenders, journalists, or their family members through psychological, legal, and financial aid, as well as relocation measures,” Thioye explained.
Political divisions amid security challenges
The debate over constitutional reform has intensified political divisions in the DRC, with two major coalitions emerging: the Coalition Article 64 for the Defense of the Constitutional Order (C64) and the Coalition of Congolese for Constitutional Change (C4). Both groups claim widespread public support for their respective agendas.
This political turmoil unfolds against the backdrop of a persistent security crisis in eastern DRC, exacerbated by the activities of local and foreign armed groups. The resurgence of the M23 rebellion, backed by Rwanda, has further destabilized the North-Kivu and South-Kivu provinces. Additionally, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) continue their operations, while diplomatic initiatives struggle to yield tangible results on the ground.
Clément Muamba
