Police halt Congo protests against constitutional changes

In Congo, authorities deployed tear gas to break up protests against proposed constitutional amendments that could permit President Félix Tshisekedi to run for a third term. The opposition coalition C64 led demonstrations in Kinshasa and other cities, including Lubumbashi and Kindu, despite restrictions on large gatherings due to the Ebola outbreak.

The Kinshasa protest began peacefully but turned violent when police clashed with supporters of the government. Martin Fayulu, an opposition leader, accused the police of operating with militia support. The Congolese government argued that the right to protest exists within the Constitution but must be conducted appropriately. Police also halted a June demonstration in Kinshasa against the constitutional changes, resulting in injuries for several protesters, including Fayulu.

Tshisekedi, 62, has served since 2019 and is scheduled to complete his second five-year term in 2028. He has indicated he would consider seeking a third term if approved by voters in a referendum. The Constitution currently prohibits any changes to presidential term limits. However, a bill in the National Assembly could potentially allow the president to alter these provisions in the event of a "major dysfunction" that cripples state institutions, possibly following a referendum.

The main opposition parties, previously divided, united in May under the C64 coalition to oppose the proposed changes, deeming them a "serious threat" to the nation's stability.