Police Fire Tear Gas in DR Congo as Protests Erupt Over Proposed Constitutional Changes

Security forces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) deployed tear gas to disperse hundreds of demonstrators in the capital Kinshasa on Tuesday. The protests, organized by opposition parties, targeted proposed constitutional amendments that critics fear could clear the way for President Felix Tshisekedi to seek a third term in office.

The political crisis compounds ongoing challenges in the DRC, which is currently grappling with a severe Ebola outbreak and persistent conflict in the eastern regions. Demonstrations erupted not only in Kinshasa but also in Lubumbashi and Uvira despite strict authority-imposed restrictions, resulting in at least 10 arrests. The mobilization was part of a nationwide day of action spearheaded by the “C64” coalition, formed by opposition groups to block President Felix Tshisekedi's constitutional reform efforts.

Mohamed Eyenga of the Envol opposition party criticized the heavy deployment of police and the army against what he termed peaceful demonstrations. Conversely, provincial police commander General Blaise Kilimbalimba maintained that peaceful protesters were not targeted for arrest.

Under the current constitution of the DRC, presidential terms are capped at two five-year periods. Following the adoption of a bill by parliament in June to place constitutional changes before a referendum, allies of President Felix Tshisekedi have supported measures that would extend his tenure. These plans have drawn fierce criticism from opposition factions and the Catholic Church.

The demonstrations unfold just weeks after President Felix Tshisekedi proposed a national dialogue involving civil society, religious leaders, and opposition parties, while excluding armed factions such as the M23 rebels. Meanwhile, delegations from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda are scheduled to meet in Geneva, Switzerland to discuss the 2025 Washington Accords, amid long-standing tensions and accusations regarding the conflict-ridden eastern territories where the world's most severe Ebola outbreak continues to spread.