Young people in Kinshasa demand proof before constitutional reform
young people in Kinshasa demand proof before constitutional reform
- Politics
A dynamic youth movement in Kinshasa has set firm conditions for any constitutional reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo, declaring that changes must first meet three critical requirements. The collective, representing a new generation of Congolese citizens, organized a press conference on June 2 to outline their position on the current political debate surrounding constitutional amendments.
While acknowledging the right to constitutional discussion as fundamental rather than criminal, the group emphasized that any reform must demonstrate an undeniable necessity, achieve broad national consensus, and occur within a peaceful political environment. These conditions, they argue, are essential to prevent reforms from serving narrow political interests rather than the broader public good.
Challenging the reform narrative
During the conference, Mukenge Totoro, spokesperson for the movement, posed pointed questions about the motivations behind the proposed changes: “Why change the Constitution today? What specific problems will this amendment solve? How will it tangibly improve the lives of Congolese citizens? Who stands to benefit most: the nation or particular political actors? And crucially, how can we ensure this reform strengthens democracy rather than serving private interests?”
The movement’s stance reflects growing unease among young Congolese about using constitutional amendments as a political tool. They argue that without transparent answers to these questions, the debate risks deepening distrust and division within the country.
Vision for the future
Beyond the constitutional debate, the youth organization articulated their priorities as the Republic, stability, and the Congolese people. They called on their peers to reject being treated as mere electoral reserves or mobilization tools for political agendas. Instead, they urged young people to become forces for reflection, innovation, civic oversight, and national transformation.
Regarding the opposition-led ville morte (city shutdown) scheduled for June 3, the group recognized it as a legitimate form of protest protected under the Constitution. They stressed that the Democratic Republic of Congo needs both an opposition of ideas and an opposition of contestation, while advocating for dialogue and constructive reforms over confrontation.
Samyr Lukombo