Africa-Press. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is witnessing rapid movements within the political opposition to establish a unified strategy to confront the potential constitutional amendment hinted at by Felix Tshisekedi, which could pave the way for his candidacy for a third presidential term.
Tshisekedi sparked controversy during a press conference held on May 6, when he openly discussed the possibility of running again “if the people wish it,” prompting several opposition parties and figures, both domestically and abroad, to intensify their political consultations and take coordinated steps to counter any anticipated constitutional amendment.
According to political sources, the opposition held three meetings in the capital Kinshasa in recent days. The first meeting took place immediately after the president’s statements, followed by a second meeting on Monday, May 11, and a third meeting the following day.
The meetings included prominent opposition figures, such as Martin Fayulu, Jean-Marc Kabund, and Delly Sessanga, along with representatives from Moïse Katumbi’s camp, represented by the Secretary-General of the “Community” party, Diodonné Bolingetenge.
One opposition member confirmed that the main objective of these meetings is to prepare a joint action plan to confront any constitutional amendment that may allow the president to extend his stay in power.
It was also noted that the consultations are not limited to Kinshasa but also extend to Europe, particularly the Belgian capital Brussels, where several Congolese opponents are living in exile.
Questions have arisen regarding the potential joining of Joseph Kabila’s party, known as the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), to this opposition coalition.
This comes amid the complex judicial and political situations facing Kabila, following a death sentence issued against him by Congolese courts related to accusations concerning his ties to the March 23 Movement rebellion, in addition to U.S. sanctions imposed on him earlier this month.
A member of the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy stated that the party has not yet received any official invitation from the other opposition parties to participate in this initiative.
Opposition figures have not ruled out the possibility of Kabila’s camp joining in the future, emphasizing that the current goal is to “unify the entire opposition” to confront any potential constitutional amendment.
