Following their recent meeting with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, the Coalition Article 64 for the Defense of Constitutional Order (C64) held a crucial debriefing on Thursday, July 9, 2026, detailing their discussions in Bujumbura.
Addressing accusations of compromising their principles for a potential rapprochement with the Tshisekedi administration, prominent figures within the C64 sought to reassure their base. Martin Fayulu and his colleagues clarified that they did not initiate the encounter with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, asserting that he took the lead in his capacity as the current Chairperson of the African Union. While the coalition leaders embraced the concept of prioritizing political dialogue and national cohesion, as proposed by their host, they made it clear that their acceptance came with significant preconditions.
According to the C64, any authentic dialogue hinges on several critical prerequisites: a public and definitive abandonment of the proposed constitutional amendment, the immediate release of all political prisoners, an end to politically motivated legal actions, and the full restoration of public freedoms. While expressing a clear interest in engaging in discussions, the C64 leaders underscored that certain fundamental principles remain non-negotiable.
These non-negotiable tenets notably include unwavering respect for the Constitution, adherence to the rule of law, and upholding the sovereignty of the Congolese people. The coalition posits that the ongoing stagnation in the Democratic Republic of Congo stems from past peace processes failing to adequately address the profound political dimensions of the crisis, leaving its root causes unresolved.
The C64 views the Tshisekedi administration’s push for constitutional change, particularly amidst ongoing conflict and the occupation of national territory, as a critical political issue demanding immediate resolution. In this regard, they reaffirmed their unwavering opposition to any constitutional revision, advocating instead for strict adherence to institutional order. The coalition plans to amplify these demands during a peaceful march on July 22, heading towards the Palais de la Nation, where they will call for the resignation of President Félix Tshisekedi, alleging a betrayal of his constitutional oath.
