Joseph Kabila Warns DR Congo Is Drifting Toward Dictatorship, Urges Resistance to Constitutional Changes
Former Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila Kabange has warned that the country is moving toward authoritarian rule, calling on Congolese citizens to oppose plans to amend the Constitution.
In a message issued on June 11, Kabila criticized the constitutional reform agenda being promoted by President Félix Tshisekedi's administration, arguing that recent political developments confirm the government's intention to alter the country's fundamental law.
Kabila said that discussions about constitutional changes are no longer mere speculation or accusations from opposition groups, but have been validated by actions taken by the authorities, including the adoption of legislation paving the way for a constitutional referendum.
"The facts speak for themselves," Kabila said, accusing the government of pursuing constitutional amendments that could undermine democratic principles and the rule of law.
The former president described the move as a violation of the oath to uphold the Constitution and warned that it could pave the way for unlimited political power without meaningful democratic alternation.
He further argued that DR Congo is becoming a "powder keg waiting to explode," citing what he described as a shrinking democratic space and growing threats to national unity and stability.
Kabila also invoked Article 64 of the Congolese Constitution, which states that citizens have a duty to oppose any individual or group that exercises power in violation of constitutional provisions.
Calling the defense of the Constitution a patriotic obligation, he urged political parties, civil society organizations, and ordinary citizens to unite in protecting democratic gains and constitutional order.
The statement comes amid an ongoing debate in DR Congo over proposed constitutional reforms, which critics fear could create a path for President Félix Tshisekedi to remain in power beyond the two-term limit currently set by the Constitution.
