The National Episcopal Conference of Congo has issued a stern warning against plans to modify the constitution of February 18, 2006. Church leaders argue that altering protected articles could lead the nation toward severe instability, including the threat of balkanization.

Religious authorities are taking a firm stand against potential constitutional revisions. Donatien Nshole, speaking for the Catholic hierarchy, characterized the movement as a strategy to grant the current head of state an additional term in office. This move is seen as a direct challenge to the hard-won political balance established since the country’s independence.

Threats to the democratic foundation

The Church views these maneuvers as a threat to the historic political consensus reached after years of national crisis. Critics within the clergy point to recent legislative efforts regarding referendums, which are being advanced under the guise of legal necessity but appear designed to bypass constitutional safeguards.

Donatien Nshole emphasized that Article 220, which limits the duration and number of presidential terms, serves as a critical defense against the rise of dictatorship and the personal capture of state institutions. Tampering with these “locked” provisions is viewed as a violation of the established constitutional order.

Potential for national instability

The consequences of forcing through these changes could be catastrophic for the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Church warns that such actions risk triggering a new civil war or leading to the territorial fragmentation of the country. In an environment where political rivalries often take on tribal or ethnic tones, the danger of widespread unrest is a significant concern.

Following a period of deep reflection, the Catholic leadership concludes that there is neither a need nor an urgent reason to amend the constitution at this time. The primary focus for the nation must remain on achieving lasting peace, improving the social welfare of its citizens, and fostering national unity and cohesion.