DRC police break up protests against proposed constitutional changes

On Tuesday, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) police forcefully dispersed various opposition protests against proposed constitutional changes, Reuters witnesses reported. The demonstrations, called by the opposition C64 coalition, included former presidential candidates Martin Fayulu, Moise Katumbi, and Delly Sesanga. The protests aimed to prevent President Felix Tshisekedi from potentially seeking a third term, as DRC's constitution currently limits presidents to two five-year terms.

In Kinshasa, the capital, nearly several hundred people participated in the protest, which was authorized and began peacefully. However, clashes erupted between protesters and pro-government supporters, leading to the use of tear gas and warning shots by the police. Both sides allegedly engaged in stone-throwing and machete-brandishing, prompting police intervention.

In the cities of Lubumbashi and Uvira, protests were held without official authorization but were swiftly dispersed by local authorities. Despite being unofficial, these demonstrations also faced suppression from the police, according to two additional witnesses.

Opposition parties and the influential Catholic Church have vehemently criticized the proposed constitutional amendments, which they argue could enable Tshisekedi to breach the two-term limit. The dialogue announced by Tshisekedi to address the country's political challenges has been met with skepticism from the opposition, who claim it excludes rebel groups that control parts of eastern DRC.