Violence Erupts in Kinshasa During Protest Against Constitutional Changes

Violent clashes broke out in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on Friday. The unrest occurred during a protest against a proposed constitutional change that opponents argue might allow President Félix Tshisekedi to seek a third term.

The opposition coalition C64 organized the demonstration. Police dispersed the protesters with tear gas after confrontations with pro-government supporters in front of the Parliament.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently dealing with numerous crises, such as an Ebola outbreak and escalating conflict with the M23 rebels, who are supported by Rwanda. These rebels are among more than 100 armed groups vying for control in the eastern provinces.

President Tshisekedi, aged 62, has been in office since 2019 and is set to complete his second five-year term in 2028. He has indicated a willingness to pursue a third term if voters approve it through a referendum.

The Congolese Constitution prohibits any revision of presidential term limits. However, a bill under consideration in the National Assembly, the lower house, would allow the president to change these provisions in case of a major dysfunction paralyzing state institutions, potentially following a referendum.

The country’s main opposition parties, which have been divided in recent years, united in May under the banner of C64 or Coalition Article 64. They oppose what they describe as Tshisekedi’s attempt to remain in power. The coalition has labeled the proposed changes a “serious threat” to the country’s stability.

Friday’s demonstration led to skirmishes between opposition supporters and pro-government activists before police intervened.

One of the injured was Martin Fayulu, the runner-up in the 2018 presidential election and a prominent opposition figure. A video on his official Facebook page showed Fayulu with blood visible around his eyes and on the collar of his white shirt, as his supporters helped him through the crowd.

This story was translated from English by an AP editor with the assistance of a generative AI tool.