The Lucha movement, a pro-democracy organization in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has strongly condemned the promulgation of a law by President Félix Tshisekedi that sets conditions for organizing a referendum. Lucha views this move as a betrayal of the president's oath to uphold the constitution and a bid to extend Tshisekedi's term in office. The organization argues that this law is anti-democratic and unconstitutional.
The new law, which replaces the 2005 law that governed the adoption of the current constitution, defines a referendum as a direct consultation where citizens vote 'yes' or 'no' on a given question or text. It also expands the scope for popular consultation, allowing citizens to vote on a new constitution or amendments to existing constitutional provisions. Lucha asserts that this development is a "suicidal" turn that jeopardizes the democratic process.
Lucha has urged President Tshisekedi to rescind the law, prioritizing the nation's interest over personal ambitions. The movement also called on citizens, civil society, and the diaspora to mobilize against the law, warning of a looming threat to the country's unity and pact republican. Lucha vows to use peaceful civil disobedience to defend democracy.
The promulgation of the law has sparked concerns about President Tshisekedi's intentions, with Lucha accusing him of seeking a life presidency. The organization stresses that this move undermines the constitution and the democratic process. Tshisekedi's administration has not yet responded to Lucha's allegations.
Joseph Olenghankoy, a prominent figure, has echoed Lucha's sentiments, calling for the release of other political prisoners following the recent liberation of Aubin Minaku. Olenghankoy sees these releases as essential to easing political tensions and fostering an inclusive national dialogue.
The economic situation in the DRC remains challenging, with 28.8 million Congolese facing acute food insecurity. Meanwhile, the Catholic Church in Lubumbashi is experiencing difficulties, and the World Food Programme's assistance has been positively received by vulnerable households in the South Kivu region.
In other developments, Daniel Bumba Lubaki, Governor of Kinshasa, has appointed a new team to lead the Régie d'assainissement de Kinshasa (RASKIN), following the dismissal of Fils Mukoko. The DRC's cooperation with Africa has been highlighted as a significant geopolitical development.
Key points
- Lucha accuses President Tshisekedi of seeking a life presidency through the new referendum law.
- The law allows citizens to vote on a new constitution or amendments to existing constitutional provisions.
- Lucha calls for mass mobilization and peaceful civil disobedience to defend democracy.
