The national body of Catholic bishops in the Democratic Republic of Congo has come out strongly against President Félix Tshisekedi’s initiative to amend the constitution. The National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) warns that such a move risks undermining the nation’s democratic foundations and triggering deep institutional unrest. Their recent public statement adds significant weight to a political conversation that has been intensifying in Kinshasa for several months.
The Catholic Church stands firm against constitutional changes
In a powerful statement, the Congolese bishops characterized any modification of the fundamental law as ill-timed. CENCO, a major player in African politics, maintains that the 2006 Constitution remains a vital framework born from a hard-won national consensus after years of transition. The clergy expresses concern that rewriting the text could eventually lead to a manipulation of electoral rules to favor the current administration.
Back in October 2024, President Félix Tshisekedi argued that the RDC needed a new constitution better suited to its specific realities. He claimed the existing document was drafted under foreign influence and restricted national progress. While a commission was slated for 2025 to explore these changes, the prospect has alarmed the Church, opposition parties, and civil society groups alike.
A history of defending democratic limits
The current opposition from the bishops aligns with their historical role in the country. In 2015, they led the charge against attempts by Joseph Kabila to alter presidential term limits. Their mediation during the 2016 Saint Sylvester Agreement was also crucial in averting a national crisis. This track record gives their current intervention significant political weight.
The bishops emphasize that certain parts of the Congolese Constitution are “locked” and intangible, specifically regarding the number and duration of presidential terms. Opening these provisions is seen as opening a Pandora’s box for the nation. Although the presidency claims the goal is to modernize state architecture rather than extend power, the Catholic leadership remains unconvinced, urging instead for the strict enforcement of current laws.
This debate carries immense weight in a nation where over 40% of the population is Catholic. The message from the pulpit resonates far beyond political activism, with many parishes already sharing the bishops’ concerns during Sunday services, signaling a broad mobilization.
Political challenges for Félix Tshisekedi
Despite having a strong majority in the National Assembly following his 2023 reelection, Félix Tshisekedi faces a complex challenge. The moral authority of CENCO is a force to be reckoned with, and its positions are closely monitored by international partners. This development is a key part of current Africa news English coverage regarding democratic transitions in the region.
Furthermore, this constitutional debate unfolds as the RDC grapples with severe security issues in the east. The national army is currently engaged in conflict with M23 rebels in the provinces of Nord-Kivu and Sud-Kivu. Some observers worry that focusing on constitutional reform could distract from urgent humanitarian and military priorities, while others suggest it is a strategy to strengthen the executive branch amidst regional instability.
The coming months will reveal whether the government proceeds with its timeline or chooses a more cautious approach. As the Union Sacrée coalition and civil society take their positions, the Catholic Church has made it clear it will not remain a silent observer in this struggle for the RDC’s political future.
